Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 5, 2026

miRNA Expression Analyses in Prostate Cancer Clinical Tissues
Published on: September 8, 2015
A Fluorescent Carbon Nanotube Sensor Detects the Metastatic Prostate Cancer Biomarker uPA
Ryan M Williams1, Christopher Lee1, Daniel A Heller1,2
1Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , New York 10065 , United States.
Abstract:
Therapeutic outcomes in patients with prostate cancer are hindered by the inability to discern indolent versus aggressive disease. To address this problem, we developed a quantitative fluorescent nanosensor for the cancer biomarker urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). We used the unique fluorescent characteristics of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) to engineer an optical sensor that responds to uPA via optical bandgap modulation in complex protein environments. The sensing characteristics of this construct were modulated by passivation of the hydrophobic SWCNT surface with bovine serum albumin (BSA). The sensor enabled quantitative detection of known uPA concentrations in human blood products. These experiments potentiate future use of this technology as a rapid, point-of-care sensor for biomarker measurements in patient fluid samples. We expect that further work will develop a method to discern aggressive vs indolent prostate cancer and reduce overtreatment of this disease.
Related Concept Videos
The Carbon Cycle
Carbon Skeletons
Carbonation Shrinkage
The concrete's permeability is slightly reduced as calcium carbonate produced during the reaction fills its pores. Furthermore, its strength is slightly enhanced as the water released during the reaction...
Carbon-dioxide Fixation
Carbon-13 (¹³C) NMR: Overview
Carbon Dioxide Transport in the Blood
Forms of CO2 Transport
1. Dissolved in plasma: A small percentage (7-10%) of CO2 is transported and dissolved directly in the plasma.
2. Carbaminohemoglobin: Just over 20% of CO2 is chemically bound to...

