High Density protein nanoarray

Isis Project No 3310

University of Oxford and NTT researchers have developed a self-assembly approach to low-cost, high-density nanoarrays for use in proteomics and drug discovery.


MARKETING OPPORTUNITY

Although DNA array technology is well developed, the protein equivalent is still at an early stage. Protein arrays have been recognized as a valuable tool to study the function of proteins and to aid drug discovery. Developments made by University of Oxford and NTT scientists show potential to deliver low-cost and high-density protein arrays via a self-assembly method, offering an excellent opportunity to companies engaged in proteomics and drug discovery.
THE INVENTION

This invention offers the following key benefits:

* Increased density of array elements - 109 nanodots are covered by a 10ml sample.
* Lower manufacturing cost - self-assembly and no lithographic processes.
* No loss of protein functionality - proteins are reconstituted into a lipid bilayer and not affected by the substrate.

Self-assembly of the vesicle nanoarray involves three steps, shown in the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) images on the left. Firstly, gold nanodots are formed by the self-assembly of gold along silicon steps (Figure 1). Next, vesicles are formed with gold-affinity head groups (Figure 2). Finally, the vesicle and nanodot array are brought together in solution forming the protein nanoarray (Figure 3).


source: http://www.isis-innovation.com/licensing/3310.html