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Enzyme-Free Colorimetric Method for Fast Detection of PIK3CA Gene Mutation by Praseodymia Nanorods
Lei Jiang1, Meng Wang1, Youxun Li2
1Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, College of Chemical Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, China.
Analytical Chemistry
|January 26, 2023
Summary
A new enzyme-free colorimetric method detects PIK3CA gene mutations. This approach identifies individuals susceptible to cancers and viruses by analyzing nucleotide interactions with praseodymia nanorods.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) gene is frequently mutated in various cancers.
- PIK3CA mutations are also implicated in viral endocytosis, suggesting a link to viral susceptibility.
- Identifying these specific mutations is crucial for early cancer detection and understanding viral vulnerability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple, enzyme-free colorimetric method for rapid PIK3CA gene mutation detection.
- To leverage the unique properties of praseodymia nanorods for nucleotide discrimination.
- To establish a foundation for broader applications in genetic mutation screening.
Main Methods:
- Utilized praseodymia nanorods with oxidase-mimicking characteristics.
- Designed specific probes for nucleotide interaction analysis.
- Employed a colorimetric approach for visual detection of mutation-specific interactions.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a method based on dissimilar interactions between praseodymia nanorods and different nucleotides.
- Successfully detected PIK3CA gene mutations through colorimetric changes.
- Showcased the potential of praseodymia nanorods in distinguishing between nucleotide variations.
Conclusions:
- Developed a facile and enzyme-free colorimetric assay for PIK3CA mutation detection.
- The method's mechanism relies on praseodymia nanorod interactions and their catalytic properties.
- This approach holds promise for screening mutations in other genes, aiding in early disease detection.

