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ImmunoFET technology for protein sensing in highly ionic buffer solutions was long deemed infeasible. However, our research asserts that this is both theoretically and experimentally incorrect. In the theoretical assessment, the biochemical properties suggested in the erroneous model are not in accordance with established knowledge of antibody structure and function. Much is known about the biochemistry of antibodies and antibody fragments that are antithetical to the description of these biomolecules in previous immunoFET feasibility arguments. We use knowledge from years of immunological research to support our assertions and the experimental data supports this as well. Empirical evidence suggests that protein detection at physiological salt concentrations is not only plausible, but also indeed possible, with an immunoFET device. Detection of the monokine induced by interferon gamma (MIG) in physiologic salt conditions using an immunoFET device has vast implications for transplant medicine, specifically in allograft rejection. The optimization of a MIG sensing immunoFET has vast implications for immunoFET sensors in general and the application of a MIG detecting device to clinical problems. MIG is an early marker for transplant rejection and has great potential in preventing catastrophic graft failure. In this work, we highlight several aspects of the immunoFET device that can be optimized to improve device performance. ImmunoFETs can be optimized in the area of the device itself, the thin surface film, and the receptor. Each area has several subsections that are important in determining the best method to increase device sensitivity. The application of nanobiotechnology, namely protein engineering and interfacial design, is paramount to the implementation of such optimization strategies. This research looks to provide empirical and theoretical evidence to support immunoFET feasibility and elucidate strategies to improve the application of immunoFET technology. |
