Molecular Playground/OmpG2

From Proteopedia

Protein biosensors serve as an analytical device combining a biological component with a physiochemical detector. Through protein engineering we are able to utilize pores to be used as stochastic sensors, for single molecule detection. The applications of biosensors range from fundamental research, clinical diagnosis, and even advances in homeland security. PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) and ELISA (Enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay) are current sensitive detection methods. However, these methods are time consuming and require laborious effort, where results are provided hours or days later. For this reason alternate approaches are mounting in demands that are rapid in detection time, highly sensitive and reliable.

Through stochastic sensing, utilizes the passage of ionic current through a protein pore containing engineered recognition sites, allowing for monitoring of analytes present. We propose the use of monomeric protein OmpG (outer membrane protein G) will allow us to tailor and fine tune properties of this pore in detection of analytes. This monomeric porin has features, which allow for complex properties to be customized as a sensor compartment, via protein engineering, providing eminent potential for the development of this protein as a successful biosensor. Utilizing the flexibility of an extracellular loop, we will append a ligand to help detect our target analyte.