Scientists Create First Nanosensors Using DNA
For the first time, scientists from the United States and Italy have collaborated to create nanobiological sensors using human DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) molecules. These sensors can rapidly detect the activity of thousands of different types of transcription factor proteins, offering potential applications for personalized cancer treatments and monitoring the activity of transcription factors. Transcription factors act as the master control switches of life, governing the fate of human cells. Their role is to read the genome and translate it into instructions that guide the synthesis of molecules that compose and control the cell. They function somewhat like a "settings button" for the cell, and the primary job of the new sensor is to read these settings.
The foundation of this new technology lies in the researchers' study of natural biosensors within cells. Francesco Ricci, who participated in the research from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, stated that all the information needed to detect transcription factor activity is already encoded in the genome. Moreover, when in an activated state, these thousands of different transcription factors bind to specific target DNA sequences. Therefore, these sequences can serve as starting points for constructing new nanosensors.
Inspired by these natural nanosensors, the research team synthesized new nanosensors using DNA rather than proteins or RNA. They modified three natural DNA sequences, each capable of recognizing a different transcription factor, embedding them into molecular switches. When these DNA sequences bind to their targets, the molecular switches fluoresce. Scientists can use such nanosensors to directly determine the activity of transcription factors within cells simply by measuring the intensity of fluorescence.
Related articles:
- Ocean University of China successfully observes Typhoon Muifa with wave buoy system
- Awards ceremony held for the Chinese Instrument and Control Society's Science and Technology Award
Website reference: www.testchamber.com.tw