A new colorimetric strategy for the detection of proteins was developed in this work using synthetic enzyme mimics in replacement of natural enzymes as signal amplifiers. Colorimetric protein sensors have been reported with great potentials for point-of-care applications in clinical treatment. Natural enzymes commonly employed in such sensors for signal amplification, however, limit sensor application due to enzyme instability and activity variation. The use of artificial enzyme mimics provides a new way to fabricate robust protein sensors. The array-based sensor relies on analyte-protein-induced modulation of the peroxidase-like activity of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs). Different proteins bound to Fe3O4 NPs modulate enzymatic activity in different fashions which are amplified through a catalytic colorimetric reaction. Reproducible colorimetric signal patterns were generated, enabling rapid detection and identification of ten proteins at a 50 nM concentration.

Colorimetric protein sensing using catalytically amplified sensor arrays

244th National Meeting (2012)

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