This $447,747 Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Program (CFDA 47.041) to Trustees of Boston University will develop a novel plasmonic nanosensor system to detect two important classes of RNA molecules - microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers and SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA. The sensor platform uses DNA structures with nanoparticle probes that undergo conformational changes when binding to target RNAs, altering the plasmonic coupling signal which is detected via two-color interferometric scattering microscopy. For viral RNA detection, the sensor will be combined with CRISPR-Cas13 enzymatic signal amplification. The project will also integrate the research into educational activities including coursework development, a summer workshop for high school students and teachers, and an Instagram channel to engage the public on plasmonic nanosensor technology. The award period is from March 1, 2024 to February 28, 2027.
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