Single-Molecule Protein Sequencer, to diagnose diseases at the gene and protein level
Themes: Life Science & Health
Basic research
A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology. When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be implemented. The image below shows how to read TRL’s to categorise the innovative ideas.
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Why?
Current protein sequencing techniques require relative large amounts of sample and fail to detect small protein populations. Our method will sequence single protein molecules, with high sensitivity and dynamic range, bringing single cell proteomics within reach.
How?
This system uses a combination of a natural nanochannel and single-molecule fluorescence to scan the sequence of a subset of amino acids of full length proteins. Using existing proteomic databases, proteins can be identified from this sequence.
When?
We will finish the lab scale demonstration in 2017, and place the first tabletop prototypes by 2019. Our system will replace many current techniques for protein based medical diagnostics and research. Also providing a powerful tool for personalized medicine.
Jetty van Ginkel MSc