Label-free analysis of physiological hyaluronan size distribution with a solid-state nanopore sensor

Area of Science:

• Biomolecular analysis
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• Hyaluronan (HA) is crucial for physiological functions like joint lubrication and tissue hydration.
• HA abundance and size are key indicators of disease progression.
• Current HA analysis methods lack sensitivity, dynamic range, and quantitative accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive, label-free method for detecting and determining the molecular weight of hyaluronan.
• To overcome the limitations of conventional hyaluronan detection techniques.
• To establish a quantitative assay for hyaluronan as a disease biomarker.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a solid-state nanopore sensor for label-free detection of hyaluronan.
• Employed synthetic hyaluronan polymers for initial method validation.
• Analyzed hyaluronan extracted from equine synovial fluid using a nanopore sensor.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated label-free detection and molecular weight discrimination of hyaluronan.
• Quantified the size distribution of as little as 10 ng of hyaluronan from synovial fluid.
• Validated the nanopore sensor's capability in a relevant biological sample.

Conclusions:

• The developed nanopore sensor provides a quantitative method for hyaluronan assessment.
• This technology addresses the need for sensitive and accurate analysis of this critical biomarker.
• The findings bridge a gap in current diagnostic capabilities for HA-related pathologies.