6533b873fe1ef96bd12d5eb1

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Concept of dynamic DNA network dedicated to DNA-Protein interactions studies

subject

description

The approach lies on the development of an original DNA biosensor. This self-assembled DNA biochip is constituted of a tethered lipid membrane presenting « protein/DNA » complexes. This unique assembly, using a highly flexible bifunctional molecular spacer and a fluidic matrix, allows the control of oligonucleotides surface density and their mobility thus favouring hybridization of the DNA probes in liquid environment and under weak constraints. Recent Surface Plasmon Resonance experiments lead to building of protein/DNA dimers presenting two special DNA sequences recognized by regulation proteins. We demonstrated the capacity and relevance of this biosensor in the case of an estrogen receptor/DNA specific recognition, opening the possibility of specific drugs screening. We present here preliminary characterizations of these thin biomolecular films through Atomic Force Microscopy in liquid. Homogeneity of the lipid film was controlled, the surface coverage in protein was evaluated and specificity of binding is under examination at the present time. Indeed, the visualization of the self-assembled « edifice » at a molecular scale and in a bio-mimetic environment is a precious and complementary way to improve the understanding of the protein/DNA interaction mechanisms.