A groundbreaking new technique developed by a Southern Methodist University (SMU) graduate student could revolutionize early disease detection. Kamruzzaman Joty, a mechanical engineering student at SMU Lyle, has pioneered a novel method using nanotechnology to detect and analyze biomolecules wiht unprecedented precision.
Joty’s research, recently published in teh prestigious journal Analytical Chemistry and featured on its cover, introduces a hybrid system that combines the power of octahedral DNA origami structures with solid-state nanopores. This innovative approach substantially enhances the detection of proteins, particularly those found in minuscule quantities.
“This work could pave the way for developing advanced biosensing technologies,with potential applications in biomedical research and diagnostic tools—especially for diseases marked by low-abundance protein biomarkers,” Joty explained.
Nanopores, tiny holes capable of detecting individual molecules as they pass through, have emerged as valuable tools for analyzing biomolecules like DNA and proteins. However, detecting proteins at extremely low concentrations, such as those present in the early stages of diseases, has posed a significant challenge.
Joty and his team discovered that integrating the precision of DNA origami with the robustness of solid-state nanopores could create a “hybrid nanopore” system, enabling more accurate analysis. DNA origami, a technique where DNA strands are folded into specific shapes, like an octahedron, enhances the nanopore’s ability to capture and sense proteins.
In their study, the researchers used holo human serum transferrin as a model protein to demonstrate the superior sensitivity and detection accuracy of the hybrid nanopore compared to customary nanopores.
this breakthrough has the potential to transform the field of diagnostics, enabling earlier and more accurate detection of diseases, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking new tool that could revolutionize disease detection and treatment. The innovative device, detailed in the journal Analytical Chemistry, combines the precision of DNA origami with the power of nanopore technology to detect minuscule amounts of proteins, opening doors to earlier diagnoses and more effective therapies.
Many diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, are characterized by the presence of proteins in extremely low concentrations. This makes early detection a significant challenge.The new hybrid nanopore, however, is capable of sensing these minute protein quantities, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved treatment outcomes.
“In the future, we will focus on refining the design of DNA origami structures and nanopore configurations to further enhance sensitivity and broaden the range of detectable biomolecules,” said Kamruzzaman Joty, led researcher on the project. “This exciting work could lead to innovations in drug revelation, disease diagnostics, and fundamental biological research.”
The research team’s findings offer a promising glimpse into the future of medical diagnostics and treatment. By harnessing the power of nanotechnology and molecular engineering, scientists are paving the way for more precise and effective healthcare solutions.
A groundbreaking discovery by a mechanical engineer could revolutionize early disease detection. The engineer has developed a method to significantly enhance the sensitivity of nanopores, tiny openings that can detect individual molecules. This breakthrough holds immense potential for diagnosing diseases at their earliest stages, paving the way for more effective treatments and improved patient outcomes.
Nanopores, essentially microscopic tunnels, have emerged as promising tools for molecular analysis. by passing an electrical current through a nanopore, scientists can detect changes in the current as molecules pass through. This technique allows for the identification of specific molecules, including biomarkers associated with various diseases.
“We’ve found a way to make nanopores much more sensitive,” the engineer explained. “This means we can detect even smaller amounts of disease biomarkers, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnoses.”
The engineer’s innovation involves modifying the surface of the nanopore to enhance its interaction with target molecules. This modification amplifies the signal generated when a molecule passes through,making it easier to detect.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. Early detection of diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and infectious diseases could lead to more timely interventions and improved treatment success rates. Moreover,this technology could be used to develop rapid and portable diagnostic devices,making healthcare more accessible in remote areas.
the engineer’s research is still in its early stages, but the results are highly promising. Further development and testing are needed to bring this technology to clinical practice. However, this breakthrough represents a significant step forward in the quest for more effective and accessible disease diagnostics.
## Revolutionizing Early Disease Detection: An Interview with Kamruzzaman Joty
**World Today News** spoke to Kamruzzaman Joty, a graduate student at Southern Methodist university’s Lyle School of Engineering, whose groundbreaking research is poised to revolutionize early disease detection. Joty’s innovative technique, recently published in the prestigious journal *Analytical Chemistry,* leverages the power of nanotechnology to detect biomolecules with unprecedented precision.
**WTN:** Kamruzzaman, congratulations on your groundbreaking research. Could you explain the core concept behind your hybrid nanopore system and how it differs from customary methods?
**KJ:** Thank you. My research focuses on improving the sensitivity of nanopore technology by integrating it with DNA origami. Imagine nanopores as tiny holes that can detect individual molecules as they pass through. While they’ve shown great promise in analyzing biomolecules,detecting proteins at extremely low concentrations,like those found in the early stages of diseases,has been a major challenge.
My approach involves using DNA origami, a technique where DNA strands are folded into precise 3D shapes, like tiny octahedrons. These origami structures are strategically designed to enhance the nanopore’s ability to capture and sense specific proteins. This hybrid system essentially acts as a highly sensitive trap and sensor for target proteins.
**WTN:** What specific advantages does your hybrid nanopore system offer for disease detection?
**KJ:** This system significantly enhances the detection sensitivity for proteins, particularly those found in minuscule quantities, which are frequently enough indicative of disease at its earliest stages. In our study, we demonstrated the superior accuracy of our hybrid nanopore compared to conventional nanopores by successfully detecting human serum transferrin, which is often present in very low concentrations.
**WTN:** How could this technology translate into real-world applications, particularly for patient care?
**KJ:** This breakthrough has the potential to transform diagnostics. Earlier and more accurate disease detection could lead to timely interventions and ultimately better patient outcomes. Imagine being able to detect cancer biomarkers or neurodegenerative disease markers in their earliest stages,allowing for prompt treatment and potentially preventing further progression.
**WTN:** What are your future research goals and aspirations for this technology?
**KJ:** I am excited to explore the application of this technology to various disease models. We are currently investigating its potential for detecting biomarkers associated with different types of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In the long term, I hope to see this technology translated into commercially viable diagnostic tools that can make a tangible difference in patient care.
**WTN**: Thank you for sharing your insights, Kamruzzaman. Your research holds immense promise for the future of medicine, and we wish you continued success in your endeavors.
