91³Ô¹ÏÍø Lyle Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student Makes Breakthrough in Biosensing Technology
The study, featured on the cover of Analytical Chemistry, enhances the sensitivity of nanopores for early detection of diseases
91³Ô¹ÏÍø Lyle Mechanical Engineering graduate student Kamruzzaman Joty has introduced a groundbreaking new technique in nanotechnology for detecting and analyzing biomolecules, potentially paving the way for new methods of early disease detection.
“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 said.
Nanopores are tiny holes that can detect individual molecules as they pass through, making them ideal tools for analyzing biomolecules like DNA and proteins. However, detecting proteins at very low concentrations – such as those found in early stages of diseases – has been a challenge.
Joty and his research team determined that combining the precision of DNA origami with the robustness of solid-state nanopores could create a “hybrid nanopore” system, enabling more precise analysis. DNA origami is a method where DNA strands are folded into specific shapes, like an octahedron, to enhance the nanopore’s ability to capture and sense proteins. In the study, the researchers used holo human serum transferrin as a model protein to show how the hybrid nanopore could outperform traditional nanopores in sensitivity and detection accuracy.
Many diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, are characterized by proteins that are present in very small amounts, making them difficult to detect early. The hybrid nanopore’s ability to sense these low-abundance proteins could lead to earlier diagnoses and better 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 biomolecule,” Joty said. “This exciting work could lead to innovations in drug discovery, disease diagnostics, and fundamental biological research.”
About the Bobby B. Lyle School of Engineering
91³Ô¹ÏÍø's Lyle School of Engineering thrives on innovation that transcends traditional boundaries. We strongly believe in the power of externally funded, industry-supported research to drive progress and provide exceptional students with valuable industry insights. Our mission is to lead the way in digital transformation within engineering education, all while ensuring that every student graduates as a confident leader. Founded in 1925, 91³Ô¹ÏÍø Lyle is one of the oldest engineering schools in the Southwest, offering undergraduate and graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.
About 91³Ô¹ÏÍø
91³Ô¹ÏÍø is the nationally ranked global research university in the dynamic city of Dallas. 91³Ô¹ÏÍø’s alumni, faculty and nearly 12,000 students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as they lead change in their professions, community and the world.