DNA-PEG-DNA triblock macromolecules for reagentless DNA detection.
The sandwich assay is the most common design for electrochemical DNA sensors. This assay consists of three individual DNA components: an immobilized capture strand, a target strand, and a probe strand containing a redox-active reporter group. We report a simplified DNA assay where two strands of ssDNA, the capture and probe strands, are linked together via a flexible poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) spacer forming an ABA triblock macromolecule. We have developed an electrochemical assay where the detection signal arises as a consequence of a large structural change induced upon hybridization with target DNA. In this system, the DNA-PEG-DNA macromolecule folds or wraps around the target DNA, bringing the ferrocene probe in close proximity to the electrode, affording an electrochemical response.
Immoos
Chad E
CE
Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemistry, Metcalf Center for Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
Lee
Stephen J
SJ
Grinstaff
Mark W
MW
D004247:DNA / Q000032:analysis* / Q000737:chemistry*; D004563:Electrochemistry / Q000379:methods*; D006046:Gold / Q000737:chemistry; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D009841:Oligonucleotides / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000737:chemistry; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000737:chemistry*
D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D009841:Oligonucleotides; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D006046:Gold; D004247:DNA