Investigation of Metal-Dependence in DNAzymes and Applications of DNAzymes and Aptamers for Diagnostics
Mazumdar, Debapriya
This item is only available for download by members of the University of Illinois community. Students, faculty, and staff at the U of I may log in with your NetID and password to view the item. If you are trying to access an Illinois-restricted dissertation or thesis, you can request a copy through your library's Inter-Library Loan office or purchase a copy directly from ProQuest.
Permalink
https://hdl.handle.net/2142/84336
Description
Title
Investigation of Metal-Dependence in DNAzymes and Applications of DNAzymes and Aptamers for Diagnostics
Author(s)
Mazumdar, Debapriya
Issue Date
2009
Doctoral Committee Chair(s)
Lu, Yi
Department of Study
Chemistry
Discipline
Chemistry
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Degree Level
Dissertation
Keyword(s)
Chemistry, Biochemistry
Language
eng
Abstract
Practical applications of DNA in diagnostics and sensing were examined using DNAzymes and aptamers. Aptamers are nucleic acids which bind a specific chemical or biological moeity. By labeling DNAzymes and aptamers with colored gold nanoparticles, our laboratory had previously constructed colorimetric sensors for analytes recognized by these nucleic acids. In order to make these sensors more user-friendly, dipstick tests similar to the home pregnancy test were developed using lateral devices. Aptamers specific for adenosine and cocaine were used to develop diagnostic tests for these molecules, and the tests were capable of working in human serum. The 8-17 DNAzyme was used to develop a dipstick test for Pb2+, and we demonstrated its application in the detection of Pb2+ in paint in accordance with the federally defined threshold for paint to be classified as 'lead-based'. In addition, we also found that the dipstick tests can be made ∼10 times more sensitive than solution-based colorimetric tests using gold nanoparticles for detection of analytes with the naked eye. Finally, aptamer technology was also combined with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, to make MRI contrast agents which showed a change in contrast upon binding target analytes, adenosine and thrombin, which is a first step towards developing aptamer-based contrast agents for molecular MRI, capable of imaging cellular events at the molecular level.
Use this login method if you
don't
have an
@illinois.edu
email address.
(Oops, I do have one)
IDEALS migrated to a new platform on June 23, 2022. If you created
your account prior to this date, you will have to reset your password
using the forgot-password link below.
