Multiplexed analysis of genes using nucleic acid-stabilized silver-nanocluster quantum dots

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Nucleic acid-stabilized silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) exhibit luminescence, making them suitable for biosensing applications.
• Optical detection of specific DNA sequences is crucial for genetic analysis and disease diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate novel sensing modules using luminescent Ag NCs for optical DNA detection.
• To achieve multiplexed gene analysis through two distinct sensing strategies.

Main Methods:

• Design of two sensing modules: a three-component system and a hairpin DNA scaffold system, both utilizing Ag NCs as luminescence labels.
• Quenching of Ag NC luminescence within the sensing modules, with subsequent luminescence recovery upon target DNA binding via strand displacement or hairpin opening.
• Implementation of size-differentiated Ag NCs for parallel detection of multiple genes.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated optical detection of DNA with turned-on luminescence upon target recognition.
• Successfully performed multiplexed analysis of Werner Syndrome and HIV genes using the three-component sensing module.
• Achieved optical detection of the BRAC1 gene and multiplexed analysis of two genes using the hairpin sensing module.

Conclusions:

• Nucleic acid-stabilized Ag NCs are effective luminescent labels for optical DNA detection.
• The developed sensing modules provide sensitive and selective platforms for gene analysis.
• The multiplexing capability of these systems holds promise for advanced genetic diagnostics.