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Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Nanopore DNA Sequencing for Metagenomic Soil Analysis
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Rapid and selective DNA-based detection of melamine using α-hemolysin nanopores

Yingying Sheng1, Yi You, Zhong Cao

  • 1Collaborative Innovation Center of Micro/nano Bio-sensing and Food Safety Inspection, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Materials Protection for Electric Power and Transportation, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China. zhongcao2004@163.com.

The Analyst
|April 28, 2018
PubMed

Insights

We developed a fast DNA probe method using α-hemolysin nanopores to detect melamine. This sensitive approach achieves a detection limit as low as 10 picomolar for melamine analysis.

Area of Science:

  • Biotechnology
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Nanotechnology

Background:

  • Melamine contamination poses risks to food safety and human health.
  • Accurate and rapid detection methods are crucial for melamine monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a novel, rapid, and selective method for melamine detection.
  • To utilize DNA probes and nanopore technology for enhanced sensitivity.

Main Methods:

  • Employing simple DNA probes for specific melamine binding.
  • Utilizing α-hemolysin nanopores as a sensing platform.
  • Measuring changes in ionic current through the nanopore upon melamine binding.

Main Results:

  • Achieved a highly selective detection of melamine.
  • Demonstrated a low limit of detection (LOD) of 10 picomolar (pM).
  • The method is rapid, offering quick analysis times.

Conclusions:

  • The developed DNA probe and α-hemolysin nanopore system provides a sensitive and selective platform for melamine detection.
  • This approach holds potential for practical applications in food safety testing and quality control.

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