Breakthrough: Protein Triumphantly Transmitted Through Nanopore!

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Reportedly, scientists have made a significant breakthrough in protein sequencing technology. Professor Giovanni Maglia from the University of Groningen has discovered a method to transport proteins through a nanopore, allowing for simple and portable protein sequencing.

DNA sequencing has revolutionized our understanding of life, and now scientists are turning their attention to protein sequencing. Proteins are responsible for executing the processes within our cells and gaining a deeper understanding of them can provide valuable insights into how our bodies function.

 

Currently, there are portable devices available that can sequence DNA using nanopore technology. This involves passing a single strand of DNA through a small hole (nanopore) in a membrane and reading its sequence as it passes through. Scientists have been attempting to apply this same technology to proteins but faced challenges in transporting long protein strands through the small nanopores.

Maglia likens transporting proteins through nanopores to pushing cooked spaghetti through a tiny hole – it’s not an easy task due to the disorganized nature of long protein strands. Unlike DNA, proteins have weaker charges and can carry positive or negative charges. Therefore, existing technology needed adaptation.

 

 

To overcome this hurdle, Maglia used electrically charged particles (ions) in a solution to transport proteins through the nanopore. As these ions pass through with an electric field, they wash away the protein along with them. The challenge was ensuring that the flow generated by these ions would be strong enough. By applying high charges to the nanopore itself, Maglia was able to create directional flow and successfully transport proteins.

This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for protein sequencing without any fundamental limitations. Maglia plans on making his laboratory’s nanopore technology accessible through his startup called Portal Biotech. This development will benefit various users such as laboratories and doctors who require protein sequencing capabilities.

But why is protein sequencing important? While DNA provides instructions for our bodies, it is proteins that carry out vital functions within our cells. Proteins are responsible for tasks such as capturing and releasing oxygen, defending against pathogens, and transmitting signals. Understanding proteins can shed light on how cells work and what causes them to malfunction, leading to potential advancements in disease treatments.

In the final analysis, Professor Maglia’s breakthrough in transporting proteins through nanopores brings us one step closer to achieving easy protein sequencing. This discovery has the potential to unlock a deeper understanding of our bodies at the molecular level and pave the way for innovative medical treatments.

Reference: Sauciuc A, Morozzo della Rocca B, Tadema MJ, Chinappi M, Maglia G. Translocation of full-length linearized proteins through an engineered nanopore under opposing electrophoretic force. Nat Biotechnology. 2023. doi: 10.1038/s41587-023-01954-x

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