Specific Small-Molecule Detection Using Designed Nucleic Acid Nanostructure Carriers and Nanopores.

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomolecular Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Detecting small biomolecules with high signal-to-noise ratio in nanopore sensors remains a challenge.
• Existing methods struggle with sensitivity and selectivity for diverse small molecules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a reliable method for quantifying small molecules using nanopore sensor technology.
• To enhance the sensitivity, selectivity, and signal-to-noise ratio of nanopore-based detection.

Main Methods:

• Utilized tetrahedral DNA nanostructures as surrogates for target molecules in a competition substitution assay.
• Incorporated magnetic Fe3O4-DNA tetrahedron nanoparticles (MNPs) into a nanopore electrochemical system.
• Employed aptamer deformation-induced detachment from MNPs and subsequent nanopore traversal for detection.

Main Results:

• Achieved reliable quantification of target small molecules with improved sensitivity and selectivity.
• Demonstrated a significant enhancement in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to conventional methods.
• Showcased robust anti-interference capabilities of the developed sensing platform.

Conclusions:

• The novel nanopore sensing methodology significantly advances small-molecule detection capabilities.
• This approach holds potential for developing precise clinical diagnostic tools with enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range.
• The use of DNA nanostructures offers a versatile platform for various small-molecule targets.