研究実績の概要 |
A series of peptides, derived from odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), were strategically designed to recognize VOCs associated with SARS-CoV-2. Ethanol, nonanal, benzaldehyde, acetic acid, and acetone were chosen as representative VOCs found in exhaled breath during COVID-19 infection. Computational docking and prediction tools were employed to characterize and analyze the OBP peptides. Various factors, such as docking models, binding affinity, sequence specificity, and structural folding, were examined.
Additionally, bioreceptors such as DNA aptamers and organic receptors like APTES have been confirmed and utilized for highly sensitive detection of small molecules, such as cortisol and aromatic compounds. The interaction mechanisms were demonstrated using computational docking approaches.
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今後の研究の推進方策 |
Therefore, the next step in our research will focus on developing a peptide-gold nanoparticles, PDMS-based wearable sensor for VOCs detection. This innovative approach will capitalize on the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) phenomenon induced by gold nanoparticles, which is known for its enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. By incorporating the peptide-based recognition elements onto the gold nanoparticles, we aim to create a highly responsive and reliable wearable sensor for detecting VOCs in real-time. This cutting-edge technology has the potential to revolutionize VOCs sensing applications, from environmental monitoring to medical diagnostics and beyond.
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