Chung-Ang University Develops Non-invasive Biosensor for Early Kidney Disease Detection
The biosensor detects symmetric dimethylarginine in urine, offering earlier detection of kidney dysfunction compared to creatinine
Kidney disease is a global health concern, but conventional tests that check creatinine levels often overlook early signs of damage. To solve this, researchers developed an innovative biosensor that detects symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), a byproduct of protein breakdown. The sensor uses special peptides to measure SDMA in urine with high accuracy and does not need additional diagnostic equipment. This simple, cost-effective tool enables early detection of kidney issues, supporting timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.
Traditionally, kidney health has been monitored by measuring blood creatinine levels, which indicate muscle breakdown. High creatinine levels can suggest that the kidneys are not filtering waste efficiently. However, creatinine levels can be affected by a person’s muscle mass and only rise significantly after more than 75% of kidney function is lost. As an alternative, SDMA, a byproduct of protein breakdown, has emerged as a more reliable indicator of kidney function. SDMA accumulates in the bloodstream because it cannot be metabolized and is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Measuring SDMA in urine provides a more accurate indicator of kidney health. Unlike creatinine, SDMA levels increase even with mild kidney impairment (25–40% loss) and are not significantly influenced by muscle mass.
In a recent study, researchers led by Professor Jong Pil Park from Chung-Ang University, Republic of Korea, introduced a biosensor to detect SDMA levels in urine. This non-invasive method offers a reliable alternative to blood tests, allowing for earlier detection and treatment of kidney disease. This study was made available online on October 22, 2024, and will be published in Volume 267 of the journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics on January 01, 2025.
“Since kidney disease is often diagnosed very late, we aim to develop a sensing tool that patients or clinicians can use to easily monitor kidney health for effective treatment, enabling timely interventions and potential for long-term outcomes,” says Prof. Park.
The core of this biosensor includes small, linear peptides that specifically bind to SDMA. These peptides were synthesized and bound to the surface of a Ni-Cr layered double hydroxide with graphene oxide (NCL-GO) nanostructure, integrated onto gold (Au) electrodes. To design the sensor, the researchers used a technique called the drop-cast method. They coated gold electrodes with a solution containing NCL-GO and allowed it to dry, forming a stable coating of peptide-functionalized electrodes (referred as peptide/NCL-GO/Au). The unique two-dimensional structure of NCL-GO consists of Ni-Cr layered double hydroxide nanosheets interconnected with conductive graphene oxide nanosheets. This setup creates porous, well-connected networks that facilitate better charge transfer and molecular diffusion, improving both the conductivity and the surface area of the electrodes. This enhances the interaction between the peptides and SDMA, boosting the sensor’s detection capabilities.
While other SDMA detection methods like chromatography, offer higher sensitivity, this new electrochemical biosensor is easier to use and does not require advanced equipment. This makes it more affordable and practical in many settings, including small clinics, remote locations, and places with fewer resources. It has a simple design and shows fast results, making it a suitable option for regular health check-ups and monitoring.
“The sensor could facilitate earlier diagnosis, advanced monitoring of kidney function, and improved treatment outcomes for millions of patients worldwide. Moreover, our platform technology has the potential to be adapted for detecting other biomarkers, making it a versatile tool applicable across various areas of healthcare,” says Prof. Park.
Reference
Authors: Jae Hwan Shin1, Navnath S. Padalkar1, Hyo Jeong Yang1, Jayshri A. Shingade1,2 and Jong Pil Park1
Title of original paper: Affinity peptide-based electrochemical biosensor with 2D-2D
nanoarchitecture of nickel–chromium-layered double hydroxide and graphene oxide nanosheets for chirality detection of symmetric dimethylarginine
Journal: Biosensors and Bioelectronics
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bios.2024.116871
Affiliations:
1Department of Food Science and Technology, and GreenTech-based Food Safety Research Group, BK21 Four, Chung-Ang University, Republic of Korea
2Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society, Deemed to be University, India
About Chung-Ang University
Chung-Ang University is a private comprehensive research university located in Seoul, South Korea. It was started as a kindergarten in 1916 and attained university status in 1953. It is fully accredited by the Ministry of Education of Korea. Chung-Ang University conducts research activities under the slogan of “Justice and Truth.” Its new vision for completing 100 years is “The Global Creative Leader.” Chung-Ang University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, which encompass a law school, management program, and medical school; it has 16 undergraduate and graduate schools each. Chung-Ang University’s culture and arts programs are considered the best in Korea.
Website: https://neweng.cau.ac.kr/index.do
About Professor Jong Pil Park from Chung-Ang University
Dr. Jong Pil Park obtained his Ph.D. at Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). He then worked as a postdoctoral researcher at Northwestern University and Columbia University. He joined as an Assistant Professor in Daegu Haany University and moved to Chung-Ang University in 2020. Now, Dr. Park is a Professor of Food Science and Technology at Chung-Ang University, South Korea, and an Adjunct Professor of Food Technology at DY Patil Agriculture & Technical University, India. His research focuses on designing and applying synthetic and biomimetic peptides for use in medicine, diagnostics, and biotechnology. His interdisciplinary work spans synthetic peptide chemistry, recombinant DNA technology, protein mimicry, nanobiotechnology, and microscale biosensor development.
Website: https://scholarworks.bwise.kr/cau/researcher-profile?ep=1293
