Fluorescent ADP Sensing in Physiological Conditions Based on Cooperative Inhibition of a Miniature Esterase

摘要

The development of specific sensors for (poly)anions is of considerable current interest since they play a fundamental role in a wide range of biological processes. We decided to use enzyme-based sensors to achieve such a goal. If the substrate or the product of an enzymatic reaction has distinguishable physical properties, specific inhibition of the catalytic activity by an anion of choice allows its detection. An interesting variation lies in the use of enzyme mimic-based sensors since they are a priori less fragile, more easily available, cheaper, and chemically more flexible (e.g., for subsequent immobilization) in comparison with their natural analogues. The activity and selectivity of native enzymes rely on complex folds for a precise spatial arrangement of a small number of catalytically important amino acids. Thus, the presentation of theses functional groups on small peptides with well-defined secondary structures is an attractive alternative for the preparation of effective enzyme mimics.