Sensitive cytokine assay based on optical fiber allowing localized and spatially resolved detection of interleukin-6

Abstract

We demonstrated a cytokine detection device based on gold nanoparticle modified silica optical fiber for the monitoring of locally variable cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations using a sandwich immunoassay scheme. The fiber is designed to be introduced into an intrathecal catheter with micrometer-sized holes drilled along its length to enable fluid exchange between the outside and inside of the catheter. An exposed optical fiber (diameter 125 μm) modified with a layer of gold nanoparticles was functionalized with the IL-6 capture antibody to form the sensing interface. The immunocapture device was incubated with a cytokine solution to capture the analyte. The device was then exposed to the IL-6 detection antibody which was loaded on the fluorescently labeled magnetic nanoparticles, making it possible to quantify the cytokine concentration based on the intensity of fluorescence. A reliable method for quantifying the fluorescent signal on a 3D structure was developed. This device was applied to the detection of cytokine IL-6 with the low limit of detection of 1 pg mL⁻¹ in a sample volume of 1 μL. The device has the linear detection range of 1–400 pg mL⁻¹ and spatial resolution on the order of 200–450 μm, and it is capable of detecting localized IL-6 secreted by live BV2 cells following their liposaccharide stimulation. This biological detection system is suitable for monitoring multiple health conditions.