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Functional DNA-enhanced quantum dots biosensor for rapid and sensitive β-lactamase detection in Haemophilus
Jie Yao1, Yuanyuan Huang1, Ying Xiong1
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Med+X Center for Manufacturing, Department of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory Medicine Research Center, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
A novel method uses DNA-regulated quantum dots to detect beta-lactamase (BL) in bacterial infections. This sensitive assay quickly identifies BL-positive bacteria, aiding in targeted antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Beta-lactamase (BL) detection is crucial for guiding antibiotic therapy in bacterial infections.
- Existing methods may lack sensitivity or speed for rapid clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly sensitive and rapid method for beta-lactamase (BL) detection using DNA-regulated cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe QDs).
- To enable selective recognition of BL activity through a DNA-mediated redox reaction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized DNA-regulated CdTe QDs for selective recognition of penicilloic acid (PA), a product of beta-lactamase hydrolysis.
- Employed a protein-scaffolded DNA (PS DNA) nanonet for enhanced Cu2+ loading and reduced background interference.
- Quantified BL activity by measuring the reaction between PA, Cu2+, and CdTe QDs.
Main Results:
- Achieved pM-level sensitivity for PA detection.
- Established detection limits of 74.6 mU/L for BL and 590 CFU/mL for BL-positive Haemophilus influenzae.
- Completed the entire assay within 1.1 hours.
- Demonstrated high consistency with nitrocefin tests and whole genome sequencing in 60 clinical samples.
Conclusions:
- The developed DNA-regulated CdTe QD method offers a sensitive, rapid, and selective approach for BL detection.
- This technique holds promise for guiding clinical treatment decisions in bacterial infections.
- The PS DNA nanonet structure significantly enhances detection sensitivity and reduces assay interference.
