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Advancing Single-Molecule Sensing for Protein Sequencing
In this project, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and optimization of a single-molecule sensor designed for the detection, identification, and sequencing of important biomolecules such as DNA and proteins. The sensor technology is built upon the principles of microfluidics, nanofabrication, and machine-learning data analysis. It is an excellent fit for students who possess skills and a strong interest in these fields and are eager to engage in an interdisciplinary project with significant potential impact.
Keywords: nanopore sensing, single-molecule detection, protein sequencing, dna sequencing, nanotechnology, microfluidics, nanofabrication, machine learning, interdisciplinary, biomolecular analysis, data analysis
Understanding the intricate workings of life at the cellular and molecular levels relies heavily on the detection of ions and biomolecules. The trafficking of macromolecules, including proteins, RNA, and DNA, as well as ions across the cell membrane, governs the interaction between cells, their environment, and the immune response. Disruptions in these trafficking routes can lead to severe complications, contributing to a range of diseases such as cancer, and Alzheimers disease.
While traditional methods like mass spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and X-ray spectroscopy have played instrumental roles in protein identification and sequencing, they face practical limitations when it comes to achieving time-resolved quantitative measurements from individual cells. Recent advancements, however, have given rise to a groundbreaking technique known as nanopore sequencing of DNA, which has demonstrated remarkable reliability in single-molecule analysis.
Understanding the intricate workings of life at the cellular and molecular levels relies heavily on the detection of ions and biomolecules. The trafficking of macromolecules, including proteins, RNA, and DNA, as well as ions across the cell membrane, governs the interaction between cells, their environment, and the immune response. Disruptions in these trafficking routes can lead to severe complications, contributing to a range of diseases such as cancer, and Alzheimers disease.
While traditional methods like mass spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and X-ray spectroscopy have played instrumental roles in protein identification and sequencing, they face practical limitations when it comes to achieving time-resolved quantitative measurements from individual cells. Recent advancements, however, have given rise to a groundbreaking technique known as nanopore sequencing of DNA, which has demonstrated remarkable reliability in single-molecule analysis.
Our project's ultimate objective is to revolutionize nanopore technology to enable protein sequencing. We have already developed a new generation of solid-state nanopore sensors capable of implementing serial nanopores, facilitating multiple consecutive measurements of the same molecule and significantly enhancing the information gained from each experiment.
As part of this project, we aim to refine our microfluidics system for improved reliability. Additionally, we will conduct proof-of-concept measurements using small particles and single molecules, such as known DNA sequences and peptides. Our next milestone involves adding specificity to individual nanopores, enabling the distinction of single amino acids within protein and peptide sequences. And to ensure the success of this technology, we will establish a robust data analysis pipeline utilizing the latest machine learning algorithms.
If you are a skilled and motivated student yearning to apply your theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, eager to acquire hands-on skills and gain invaluable interdisciplinary experience, then we invite you to contact us via email with your CV attached. Become an integral part of this groundbreaking project and shape the future of nanopore sensing with us.
Our project's ultimate objective is to revolutionize nanopore technology to enable protein sequencing. We have already developed a new generation of solid-state nanopore sensors capable of implementing serial nanopores, facilitating multiple consecutive measurements of the same molecule and significantly enhancing the information gained from each experiment.
As part of this project, we aim to refine our microfluidics system for improved reliability. Additionally, we will conduct proof-of-concept measurements using small particles and single molecules, such as known DNA sequences and peptides. Our next milestone involves adding specificity to individual nanopores, enabling the distinction of single amino acids within protein and peptide sequences. And to ensure the success of this technology, we will establish a robust data analysis pipeline utilizing the latest machine learning algorithms. If you are a skilled and motivated student yearning to apply your theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, eager to acquire hands-on skills and gain invaluable interdisciplinary experience, then we invite you to contact us via email with your CV attached. Become an integral part of this groundbreaking project and shape the future of nanopore sensing with us.