Multistep Array-Based Sensing of Bioanalytes Using Modified MoS₂, Fluorescence Proteins, and Cucurbituril.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Multiplexing in sensor arrays enables rapid discrimination of multiple analytes.
• Existing methods often rely on multiple signal transducers or sequential agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a one-pot sensor array combining multichannel and sequential strategies for bioanalyte discrimination.
• To utilize molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and fluorescent proteins for sensitive and selective detection.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a sensor array using positively charged MoS2 as a receptor and fluorescent proteins as signal transducers.
• Employed electrostatic interactions between MoS2 and Cucurbit [7] uril (CB7) to modulate fluorescence.
• Utilized electrodynamic analysis and optical assays to investigate fluorescence modulation.

Main Results:

• Successfully discriminated cationic and anionic proteins at 50 nM concentrations.
• Achieved a detection limit of 1 nM for beta-galactosidase (β-gal) protein.
• Demonstrated versatile detection by discriminating between normal and diseased cell lines and lysates.

Conclusions:

• The developed sensor array offers a versatile platform for rapid bioanalyte discrimination.
• Electrostatic interactions are crucial for modulating fluorescence outcomes in the array.
• The sensor shows potential for applications in diagnostics and biological analysis.