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Published on: September 16, 2014
Reagent-Free Molecular Pendulum Biosensor with Antibody-Aptamer Dual Recognition for Protein Analysis
Hui Liu1, Yu Yang1, Hongqiang Wang1
1State Key Laboratory of Chemo and Biosensing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
ACS Sensors
|June 16, 2026
Summary
A novel dual-recognition molecular pendulum biosensor offers reagent-free protein monitoring in biological fluids. This enhanced sensor design provides high sensitivity and specificity for detecting biomarkers like human serum albumin (HSA) and Aβ42.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biosensor Technology
Background:
- Continuous, reagent-free protein monitoring in complex biological fluids remains a significant challenge.
- Molecular pendulum sensors offer direct biomolecule detection but are limited by single recognition elements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an advanced molecular pendulum biosensor with dual recognition elements for enhanced protein detection.
- To improve sensor tunability, signal amplification, and performance in biological samples.
Main Methods:
- Engineered a dual recognition molecular pendulum by engaging two epitopes on target proteins (HSA, Aβ42 monomers).
- Incorporated a high-affinity antibody alongside an aptamer for increased binding efficiency.
- Utilized cryogenic surface modification for rapid probe self-assembly and employed electrical readout for signal detection.
- Investigated sensor regeneration and reuse capabilities through voltage and time adjustments.
Main Results:
- The dual recognition design amplified signal gain through conformational re-orientation.
- Replacing an aptamer with an antibody significantly boosted charge transfer and electrical readout.
- Cryogenic modification lowered detection limits, enabling rapid sensor regeneration (within 30 s).
- Demonstrated excellent specificity in the presence of interferents and high sensitivity in serum and artificial cerebrospinal fluid.
Conclusions:
- The dual recognition molecular pendulum biosensor represents a significant advancement for reagent-free protein monitoring.
- This platform offers high sensitivity, specificity, and reusability, making it suitable for complex biological sample analysis.
- The design overcomes limitations of conventional single-element sensors, paving the way for improved diagnostic tools.
