Non-Invasive Detection of Oral Cancer Through a Microfluidic Biosensor Using Salivary Interleukin-8 as a Biomarker

Saliva, a non-invasive oral biofluid, offers a rich source of biomarkers, akin to those found in blood. The advent of biosensors has facilitated the transition from invasive to non-invasive diagnostics. The current study explores the potential of the microfluidic biosensor by targeting interleukin-8, a biomarker for oral cancer towards immobilized antibodies on the microfluidic biosensor. Simulation studies probed into antigen-antibody binding kinetics in 2D and 3D environments, facilitated by COMSOL MultiphysicsTM software. The parameters taken into consideration include the concentration of antigen (interleukin 8), polymer efficacy, surface design, formation of antigen-antibody complex, and length of the reacting surface, which influenced the diagnosis of oral cancer. The investigations revealed greater insights into antigen and antibody interactions and the performance of the biosensor was improved by the reacting surface's linear design, which enabled a quicker flow rate of biofluid and increased the formation of adsorbed species. This research highlights the potential of microfluidic biosensors as a non-invasive tool for oral cancer diagnosis, particularly targeting interleukin 8. Comprehensive simulations enhance our understanding of binding kinetics and also the current work sets the stage for future advances in oral cancer diagnostics.