Mathematical Modeling of a MoSe₂-based SPR Biosensor for Detecting SARS-CoV-2 at nM concentrations

Cristian Vacacela Gomez ^1* Talia Tene ^2* Nataly Bonilla ³ Jessica Alexandra Marcatoma Tixi ³ Martha Ximena Dávalos Villegas ³ Stefano Bellucci ¹

• ¹ National Laboratory of Frascati (INFN), Frascati, Italy
• ² Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Loja, Ecuador
• ³ Escuela Superior Politécnica del Chimborazo, Riobamba, Chimborazo, Ecuador

The rapid and accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2 remains a critical challenge in biosensing technology, necessitating the development of highly sensitive and selective platforms. In this study, we present a mathematical modeling approach to optimize a MoSe₂based Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) biosensor for detecting the novel coronavirus at nM scale. Using the Transfer Matrix Method (TMM), we systematically optimize the biosensor's structural parameters, including silver (Ag), silicon nitride (Si₃N₄), molybdenum diselenide (MoSe₂), and thiol-tethered single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) layers, to enhance sensitivity, detection accuracy, and optical performance. The results indicate that an optimized 45 nm Ag layer, 10 nm Si₃N₄ layer, and monolayer MoSe₂ configuration achieves a resonance shift (Δθ) of 0.3° at 100 nM, with a sensitivity of 197.70°/RIU and a detection accuracy of 5.24 × 10⁻².Additionally, the incorporation of a 10 nm ssDNA functionalization layer significantly enhances molecular recognition, lowering the limit of detection (LoD) to 2.53 × 10⁻⁵ and improving overall biosensing efficiency. Sys₅ (MoSe₂ + ssDNA) outperforms Sys₄ (MoSe₂ without ssDNA) in terms of specificity and reliability, making it more suitable for practical applications. These findings establish the MoSe₂-based SPR biosensor as a highly promising candidate for SARS-CoV-2 detection, offering a balance between high sensitivity, optical stability, and molecular selectivity, crucial for effective viral diagnostics.