Nanocrystal Labels for Multiplex Assays

76135-The DOE¿s Genomes to Life program has identified a need to develop new reporting labels for the multiplex detection of biomolecules. The existing organic dyes that are used to label affinity agents have several limitations: narrow absorption bands, which makes it difficult to excite several colors with a single light source; broad spectral overlaps; poor photostability; and fast decay times. This project will develop novel probes for multiplex assays, based on quantum dots (QDs). The desirable properties of QDs include a narrow, tunable, symmetric emission spectrum, enabling a larger number of probes within a spectral region; excitation of different-size QDs with a single light source; and excellent photostability. The QDs will be functionalized with antibody-binding moieties for the simultaneous detection of multiple types of protein using a single light source. In Phase I, a bacterial expression vector will be constructed for the production of a biotinylated antibody-binding moiety, which will be used to functionalize streptavidin-coated QDs. Two different size QD probes will be prepared to enable simultaneous detection of two types of protein using a single light source. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: QDs should find use as probes for the multiplex detection of biomolecules, immunoassays, medical imaging, analysis of clinical samples, detection of antigens in flow cytometry, staining of biomolecules in electrophoretic separations, and screening of ligands using microarray platforms.