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
PubMed

Insights

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.

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