Fluorometric detection of influenza viral RNA using graphene oxide

Simple and reliable detection of influenza viruses is important for timely prescription of antiviral therapy. Here, we developed a facile fluorometric system for detection of influenza subtype viral genes using graphene oxide (GO). A fluorescent DNA probe complementary to hemagglutinin gene of influenza virus is degraded by the 5′ to 3′ exonuclease activity of Taq polymerase during PCR. Upon addition of GO, the released fluorophore retains fluorescence without adsorption onto GO, whereas the intact fluorescent DNA probe is adsorbed onto GO with fluorescence quenching. Our multi well plate system can detect as low as 3.8 pg of influenza viral RNA. •Graphene oxide-based PCR system was developed for influenza virus RNA detection.•Fluorescent DNA probe was adsorbed and its fluorescence quenched by graphene oxide.•The DNA probe annealed to target gene is degraded by Taq DNA polymerase during PCR.•The fluorescence of released fluorophore was preserved after addition of graphene oxide.•Graphene oxide-based PCR system can detect as low as 3.8 pg influenza viral RNA.