Molybdate-driven and cucurbit[7]uril-assembled ultrasensitive miRNA fluorescence sensor

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial non-coding RNA molecules with altered expression in various diseases.
• Accurate and sensitive detection of miRNAs is vital for early disease diagnosis.
• Current detection methods require enhancement in sensitivity for improved diagnostic capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly sensitive fluorescent biosensor for miRNA detection.
• To utilize supramolecular chemistry and nanomaterials for enhanced miRNA sensing.
• To demonstrate the biosensor's efficacy in complex biological samples like serum.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a fluorescent biosensor using Fe3O4-magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4-MNPs).
• Assembly via supramolecular host-guest interactions to link RAFT polymerization initiators.
• Initiation of reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization using Mo-based materials and fluorescent monomers.

Main Results:

• The developed biosensor achieved an ultra-low detection limit of 0.03 fM.
• Demonstrated high sensitivity and effectiveness in detecting miRNAs in human serum samples.
• Successful formation of polymers with fluorescent monomers on Fe3O4-MNPs.

Conclusions:

• The novel fluorescent biosensor offers a highly sensitive platform for miRNA detection.
• The method shows significant potential for early diagnosis of diseases through miRNA profiling.
• This approach can be extended for the detection of various other miRNA biomarkers.