Rational Design of Memory-Based Sensors: the Case of Molecular Calorimeters.
Thermodynamic characterization is crucial for understanding molecular interactions. However, methodologies for measuring heat changes in small open systems are extremely limited. We document a new approach for designing molecular sensors, that function as calorimeters: sensors based on memory. To design a memory-based sensor, we take advantage of the unique kinetic properties of nucleic acid scaffolds. Particularly, we elaborate on the differences in folding and unfolding rates in nucleic acid quadruplexes. DNA-based i-motifs unfold fast in response to small heats but do not fold back when the system is equilibrated with surroundings. We translated this behavior into a molecular memory function that enables the measurement of heat changes in open environments. The new sensors are biocompatible, operate homogeneously, and measure small heats released over long time periods. As a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate how the molecular calorimeters report heat changes generated in water/propanol mixing and in ligand/protein binding.
['Nwokolo|Obianuju A|OA|', 'Kidd|Brant|B|', "Allen|Te'Kara|T|", 'Minasyan|Alexander S|AS|', 'Vardelly|Suchitra|S|', 'Johnson|Kristopher D|KD|', 'Nesterova|Irina V|IV|0000-0002-5033-5488']
D015374:Biosensing Techniques D002151:Calorimetry D013816:Thermodynamics
sensors nucleic acids biosensors calorimetry molecular devices