The pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, requires fast, reliable, cost-effective and simple detection methods in order to effectively deal with the COVID-19 disease and prevent its spread. Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is currently the reference method and is considered the gold standard in clinical diagnosis. However, the method is not the most suitable due to the time-consuming analyses and sophisticated, expensive equipment and the need for qualified personnel. The use of lateral flow tests (LFIA), which also includes rapid antigen tests (RAT), is widely used both in clinical practice and at home. Biosensors, which represent a third option for detection, have proven to be powerful and effective tools, as they are capable of detecting viral antigens, antibodies, RNA, entire viral particles and other potential biomarkers. Nanomaterials such as nano gold, silver and nickel can be used to significantly improve the performance of biosensors, and if graphene, which is a pure form of carbon, is incorporated into the biosensors, the sensing ability is improved to a significantly higher level. The graphene transistor (Gr-FET), which is designed as a field-effect transistor, is one example of the application of graphene, which is capable of ultra-sensitive detection with low noise, enabling measurements also in the presence of small amounts of analytes. Newer technologies represent a major advancement and improvement over traditional detection methods, as they can be successfully used to detect SARS-CoV-2 with greater efficiency, accuracy, speed and convenience.
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