Vectorial Discrimination of Small Molecules with a Macrocycle Adaptor-Protein Nanopore System and Nanocavity-Dependent, pH Gradient-Controlled Analyte Kinetics.

ABSTRACT: Owing to their intrinsic qualities, protein nanopores became game-changers in the realm of analyte sensing, as they offer an inexpensive and label-free method for sophisticated recognition at the single-molecule level. Here, we exploit the complexation capability of nonfunctionalized γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD), coupled with its propensity to get reversibly captured inside a wild-type α-hemolysin nanopore (α-HL), and achieve a hybrid construct endowing specific sensing of selected, 5 bases-long oligonucleotides. We find that the molecular discrimination capability of the system has a vectorial-like sensitivity and is influenced by the sidedness and geometry of γ-CD. We showcase that asymmetrical pH changes across the γ-CD-α-HL hybrid and the ensuing electro-osmotic flow offer a simple yet powerf

SUBMITTER: Mereuta L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11912126 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature