Label-free detection of protein-protein interactions using a calmodulin-modified nanowire transistor

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2010 Jan 19;107(3):1047-52. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0910243107. Epub 2009 Dec 23.

Abstract

In this study, we describe a highly sensitive and reusable silicon nanowire field-effect transistor for the detection of protein-protein interactions. This reusable device was made possible by the reversible association of glutathione S-transferase-tagged calmodulin with a glutathione modified transistor. The calmodulin-modified transistor exhibited selective electrical responses to Ca2+ (> or = 1 microM) and purified cardiac troponin I (approximately 7 nM); the change in conductivity displayed a linear dependence on the concentration of troponin I in a range from 10 nM to 1 microM. These results are consistent with the previously reported concentration range in which the dissociation constant for the troponin I-calmodulin complex was determined. The minimum concentration of Ca2+ required to activate calmodulin was determined to be 1 microM. We have also successfully demonstrated that the N-type Ca2+ channels, expressed by cultured 293T cells, can be recognized specifically by the calmodulin-modified nanowire transistor. This sensitive nanowire transistor can serve as a high-throughput biosensor and can also substitute for immunoprecipitation methods used in the identification of interacting proteins.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Calmodulin / metabolism*
  • Nanowires*
  • Protein Binding
  • Proteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Calmodulin
  • Proteins