Biomarker capturing platform using LC-ESI/MS/MS coupled aptamer microarray

The sensitive detection of molecular biomarkers in clinical samples is crucially important in disease diagnosis. In this study, we propose and develop aptamer microarray platform combined with novel sol-gel technology to identify low abundance targets from complex solution, such as serum. Due to nanoporous structure of sol-gel, it entraps a large number of active aptamers and allows aptamers to bind target molecules with high sensitivity. TBP (TATA Box Protein) and their specific aptamers (aptamer #12 and #24) were chosen for a model system to a proof of concept. Broad ranges of sensing capability (from few nM to mM) with good linearity up to 400 nM were shown in our aptamer microarray platform by sandwich assay. Moreover, TBP protein can be identified by ESI/MS, electrospray mass spectrometry on the platform.