Protein discrimination based on DNA induced perylene probe self-assembly

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Highly sensitive and selective protein discrimination is crucial for diagnostics and research.
• Existing methods often face challenges in efficiency, sensitivity, and multiplexing capabilities.
• Development of novel sensing platforms is needed for advanced protein analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescence detection method for highly efficient and selective discrimination of multiple proteins.
• To design a sensor array capable of differentiating proteins based on their unique fluorescence responses.
• To evaluate the sensor's performance in complex biological samples like human urine.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a novel fluorescence detection system using a perylene probe and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA).
• Exploitation of ssDNA-induced perylene probe aggregation and protein-mediated fluorescence modulation ('turn-on' or 'turn-off' responses).
• Utilization of assay buffer pH as a sensing channel and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) for data processing.

Main Results:

• The sensor array achieved 100% accuracy in discriminating nine representative proteins via cross-validation.
• Protein discrimination was successful regardless of protein concentration, demonstrating robustness.
• The system accurately detected proteins at nanomolar concentrations in human urine samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed perylene-based fluorescence sensor offers a simple, sensitive, and selective method for multiplex protein discrimination.
• The pH-dependent fluorescence response provides a unique sensing channel for enhanced analytical capabilities.
• The sensor demonstrates significant potential for practical applications in biological fluid analysis and diagnostics.