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Proteolytic activity at quantum dot-conjugates: kinetic analysis reveals enhanced enzyme activity and localized
W Russ Algar1, Anthony Malonoski, Jeffrey R Deschamps
1Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Code 6900, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C. 20375, United States.
Abstract:
Recent studies show that polyvalent, ligand-modified nanoparticles provide significantly enhanced binding characteristics compared to isolated ligands. Here, we assess the ability of substrate-modified nanoparticles to provide enhanced enzymatic activity. Energy transfer assays allowed quantitative, real-time measurement of proteolytic digestion at polyvalent quantum dot-peptide conjugates. Enzymatic progress curves were analyzed using an integrated Michaelis-Menten (MM) formalism, revealing mechanistic details, including deviations from classic MM-behavior. A "hopping" mode of proteolysis at the nanoparticle was identified, confirming enhanced activity.
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