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Surface plasmon resonance biosensor explained

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Liquid biopsy is to examine tumour-derived biomarkers in biological fluids as a novel approach for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. However, conventional analytical methods for these biomarkers are time-consuming and require centralized laboratories, experienced personnel, and bulky equipment.  

A biosensor is an analytical device that converts molecular recognition of target analyte into a measurable signal, which has great potential to be developed into rapid, user-friendly, and affordable tools for clinical translation.  

In this project, we will use a benchtop surface plasmon resonance biosensing system to detect cancer biomarkers (e.g. extracellular vesicles) derived from cells. We will identify biomarkers to differentiate cancer subject from non-cancer subject and work out effective surface functionalisation strategy for improving the biomarker capture on sensor surface. 

Some of the goals of the project will be to: 

  • Establish standard SPR protocols including sensor surface modification, analyte detection, and sensor regeneration.  
  • Use SPR for analysing proteins-antibody interaction and work out effective surface functionalisation strategy for improving the capture efficiency on sensor surface. 
  • Use SPR for detecting extracellular vesicles derived from cells as cancer biomarkers, and identify specific markers to differentiate cancer subject from non-cancer subject. 

Learning opportunities

  • Passion for scientific research  
  • Self-learning and have a curious mind 
  • Preferably some previous lab experience 

Applicable knowledge

This project would suit 3rd or 4th year students.  

How many places are available?

There are two (2) student positions available.

Why is this important?

This project will establish a robust and universal platform for real-time analyte detection, which is essential for the development of other novel biosensor systems. It will collect preliminary data for extracellular vesicle analysis using surface proteins, which will provide knowledge for related cancer research. This project will identify cancer-specific markers which will provide indications for future clinical samples. 

Project leaders
Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.