Potentiality graphene oxides-functionalized magnetic nanomaterials for RNA extraction from rabies and SARS-CoV-2 viruses

Nucleic acid extraction technologies are fundamental tools in studying pathogenic agents. In this work, we report the use of magnetic materials functionalized with graphene oxide (GO) to enhance the isolation of viral RNA in biological suspensions. Graphene oxides with different synthesis parameters were used as additives and support to potentiate the extraction and purification of RNA. As additives, graphene oxides with varying degrees of oxidation were synthesized and added to a commercial nucleic acid extraction kit. The graphene oxide with the best performance was functionalized with a nanocomposite of iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONPs/SiO 2 ). The MIONPs were synthesized through the hydrothermal-assisted microwave method and were coated with silicon oxide using the Stöber method. Our results with GO5H showed it can isolate viral RNA up to 200 % more effectively than the commercial kit for Rabies (non-clinical samples) and SARS-CoV-2(clinical samples), due to the presence of oxygenized groups such as carboxyl groups and their affinity with single-stranded nucleic acids. The final nanocomposite (GO-MIONPs/ SiO 2 ) prepared in this study has potential application for incorporation into viral RNA extraction protocols, as a low-cost and high-efficiency alternative.