1
|
Zhao J, Zhang L, Cao J, Yu Y, Ma B, Jiang Y, Han J, Wang W. Sequence-Prescribed β-Sheet for Enhanced Electron Tunneling: Boosting Interface Recognition and Electrochemical Measurement. Anal Chem 2024; 96:11092-11102. [PMID: 38924493 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c02273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Peptide self-assemblies could leverage their specificity, stability, biocompatibility, and electrochemical activity to create functionalized interfaces for molecular sensing and detection. However, the dynamics within these interfaces are complex, with competing forces, including those maintaining peptide structures, recognizing analytes, and facilitating signal transmission. Such competition could lead to nonspecific interference, compromising the detection sensitivity and accuracy. In this study, a series of peptides with precise structures and controllable electron transfer capabilities were designed. Through examining their stacking patterns, the interplay between the peptides' hierarchical structures, their ability to recognize targets, and their conductivity were clarified. Among these, the EP5 peptide assembly was identified for its ability to form controllable electronic tunnels facilitated by π-stacking induced β-sheets. EP5 could enhance the long-range conductivity, minimize nonspecific interference, and exhibit targeted recognition capabilities. Based on EP5, an electrochemical sensing interface toward the disease marker PD-L1 (programmed cell death ligand 1) was developed, suitable for both whole blood assay and in vivo companion diagnosis. It opens a new avenue for crafting electrochemical detection interfaces with specificity, sensitivity, and compatibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinge Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electro-photonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electro-photonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jingtian Cao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electro-photonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electro-photonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bokai Ma
- Institute of Analysis and Testing, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology (Beijing Center for Physical and Chemical Analysis), Beijing 100089, China
| | - Yujiu Jiang
- Centre for Quantum Physics, Key Laboratory of Advanced Optoelectronic Quantum Architecture and Measurement (MOE), School of Physics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Junfeng Han
- Centre for Quantum Physics, Key Laboratory of Advanced Optoelectronic Quantum Architecture and Measurement (MOE), School of Physics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Weizhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electro-photonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Labra-Muñoz JA, van der Zant HSJ. Ferritin Single-Electron Transistor. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:6387-6393. [PMID: 38916107 PMCID: PMC11228996 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c01937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
We report on the fabrication of a single-electron transistor based on ferritin using wide self-aligned nanogap devices. A local gate below the gap area enables three-terminal electrical measurements, showing the Coulomb blockade in good agreement with the single-electron tunneling theory. Comparison with this theory allows extraction of the tunnel resistances, capacitances, and gate coupling. Additionally, the data suggest the presence of two separate islands coupled in series or in parallel: information that was not possible to distinguish by using only two-terminal measurements. To interpret the charge transport features, we propose a scenario based on the established configuration structures of ferritin involving either iron sites in the organic shell or two dissimilar clusters within the core.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline A Labra-Muñoz
- Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, 2628 CJ Delft, The Netherlands
- Department of Physics, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Herre S J van der Zant
- Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, 2628 CJ Delft, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang Y, Liang H, Qi P, Xu Z, Fei H, Guo C. Deciphering the Roles of Interfacial Amino Acids in Inter-Protein Charge Transport. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:4178-4185. [PMID: 38552164 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Elucidating charge transport (CT) through proteins is critical for gaining insights into ubiquitous CT chain reactions in biological systems and developing high-performance bioelectronic devices. While intra-protein CT has been extensively studied, crucial knowledge about inter-protein CT via interfacial amino acids is still absent due to the structural complexity. Herein, by loading cytochrome c (Cyt c) on well-defined peptide self-assembled monolayers to mimic the protein-protein interface, we provide a precisely controlled platform for identifying the roles of interfacial amino acids in solid-state CT via peptide-Cyt c junctions. The terminal amino acid of peptides serves as a fine-tuning factor for both the interfacial interaction between peptides and Cyt c and the immobilized Cyt c orientation, resulting in a nearly 10-fold difference in current through peptide-Cyt c junctions with varied asymmetry. This work provides a valuable platform for studying CT across proteins and contributes to the understanding of fundamental principles governing inter-protein CT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongkang Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Han Liang
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Pan Qi
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Zhongchen Xu
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Houguo Fei
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Cunlan Guo
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bera S, Fereiro JA, Saxena SK, Chryssikos D, Majhi K, Bendikov T, Sepunaru L, Ehre D, Tornow M, Pecht I, Vilan A, Sheves M, Cahen D. Near-Temperature-Independent Electron Transport Well beyond Expected Quantum Tunneling Range via Bacteriorhodopsin Multilayers. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145. [PMID: 37933117 PMCID: PMC10655127 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
A key conundrum of biomolecular electronics is efficient electron transport (ETp) through solid-state junctions up to 10 nm, often without temperature activation. Such behavior challenges known charge transport mechanisms, especially via nonconjugated molecules such as proteins. Single-step, coherent quantum-mechanical tunneling proposed for ETp across small protein, 2-3 nm wide junctions, but it is problematic for larger proteins. Here we exploit the ability of bacteriorhodopsin (bR), a well-studied, 4-5 nm long membrane protein, to assemble into well-defined single and multiple bilayers, from ∼9 to 60 nm thick, to investigate ETp limits as a function of junction width. To ensure sufficient signal/noise, we use large area (∼10-3 cm2) Au-protein-Si junctions. Photoemission spectra indicate a wide energy separation between electrode Fermi and the nearest protein-energy levels, as expected for a polymer of mostly saturated components. Junction currents decreased exponentially with increasing junction width, with uniquely low length-decay constants (0.05-0.5 nm-1). Remarkably, even for the widest junctions, currents are nearly temperature-independent, completely so below 160 K. While, among other things, the lack of temperature-dependence excludes, hopping as a plausible mechanism, coherent quantum-mechanical tunneling over 60 nm is physically implausible. The results may be understood if ETp is limited by injection into one of the contacts, followed by more efficient charge propagation across the protein. Still, the electrostatics of the protein films further limit the number of charge carriers injected into the protein film. How electron transport across dozens of nanometers of protein layers is more efficient than injection defines a riddle, requiring further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Bera
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Jerry A. Fereiro
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- School
of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram 695551, Kerala, India
| | - Shailendra K. Saxena
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- Department
of Physics and Nanotechnology, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai 603203, Tamil
Nadu, India
| | - Domenikos Chryssikos
- Molecular
Electronics, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Fraunhofer
Institute for Electronic Microsystems and Solid State Technologies
(EMFT), 80686 München, Germany
| | - Koushik Majhi
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Tatyana Bendikov
- Department
of Chemical Research Support, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Lior Sepunaru
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa
Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - David Ehre
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Marc Tornow
- Molecular
Electronics, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Fraunhofer
Institute for Electronic Microsystems and Solid State Technologies
(EMFT), 80686 München, Germany
| | - Israel Pecht
- Department
of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Ayelet Vilan
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Physics Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Mordechai Sheves
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - David Cahen
- Department
of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
López-Ortiz M, Zamora RA, Giannotti MI, Gorostiza P. The Protein Matrix of Plastocyanin Supports Long-Distance Charge Transport with Photosystem I and the Copper Ion Regulates Its Spatial Span and Conductance. ACS NANO 2023; 17:20334-20344. [PMID: 37797170 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Charge exchange is the fundamental process that sustains cellular respiration and photosynthesis by shuttling electrons in a cascade of electron transfer (ET) steps between redox cofactors. While intraprotein charge exchange is well characterized in protein complexes bearing multiple redox sites, interprotein processes are less understood due to the lack of suitable experimental approaches and the dynamic nature of the interactions. Proteins constrained between electrodes are known to support electron transport (ETp) through the protein matrix even without redox cofactors, as the charges housed by the redox sites in ET are furnished by the electrodes. However, it is unknown whether protein ETp mechanisms apply to the interprotein medium present under physiological conditions. We study interprotein charge exchange between plant photosystem I (PSI) and its soluble redox partner plastocyanin (Pc) and address the role of the Pc copper center. Using electrochemical scanning tunneling spectroscopy (ECSTS) current-distance and blinking measurements, we quantify the spatial span of charge exchange between individual Pc/PSI pairs and ETp through transient Pc/PSI complexes. Pc devoid of the redox center (Pcapo) can exchange charge with PSI at longer distances than with the copper ion (Pcholo). Conductance bursts associated with Pcapo/PSI complex formation are higher than in Pcholo/PSI. Thus, copper ions are not required for long-distance Pc/PSI ETp but regulate its spatial span and conductance. Our results suggest that the redox center that carries the charge in Pc is not necessary to exchange it in interprotein ET through the aqueous solution and question the canonical view of tight complex binding between redox protein partners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel López-Ortiz
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER-BBN, ISCIII, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Ricardo A Zamora
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER-BBN, ISCIII, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Marina I Giannotti
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER-BBN, ISCIII, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- Department of Materials Science and Physical Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Martí i Franquès 1-11, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Pau Gorostiza
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER-BBN, ISCIII, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona 08010, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Vacek J, Zatloukalová M, Dorčák V, Cifra M, Futera Z, Ostatná V. Electrochemistry in sensing of molecular interactions of proteins and their behavior in an electric field. Mikrochim Acta 2023; 190:442. [PMID: 37847341 PMCID: PMC10582152 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-023-05999-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical methods can be used not only for the sensitive analysis of proteins but also for deeper research into their structure, transport functions (transfer of electrons and protons), and sensing their interactions with soft and solid surfaces. Last but not least, electrochemical tools are useful for investigating the effect of an electric field on protein structure, the direct application of electrochemical methods for controlling protein function, or the micromanipulation of supramolecular protein structures. There are many experimental arrangements (modalities), from the classic configuration that works with an electrochemical cell to miniaturized electrochemical sensors and microchip platforms. The support of computational chemistry methods which appropriately complement the interpretation framework of experimental results is also important. This text describes recent directions in electrochemical methods for the determination of proteins and briefly summarizes available methodologies for the selective labeling of proteins using redox-active probes. Attention is also paid to the theoretical aspects of electron transport and the effect of an external electric field on the structure of selected proteins. Instead of providing a comprehensive overview, we aim to highlight areas of interest that have not been summarized recently, but, at the same time, represent current trends in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Vacek
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Hnevotinska 3, 77515, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
| | - Martina Zatloukalová
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Hnevotinska 3, 77515, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Vlastimil Dorčák
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Hnevotinska 3, 77515, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Cifra
- Institute of Photonics and Electronics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Chaberska 1014/57, 18200, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Futera
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 1760, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Ostatná
- Institute of Biophysics, The Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Kralovopolska 135, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jiang T, Zeng BF, Zhang B, Tang L. Single-molecular protein-based bioelectronics via electronic transport: fundamentals, devices and applications. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:5968-6002. [PMID: 37498342 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00519k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecular electronics is a rapidly growing multidisciplinary field that combines biology, nanoscience, and engineering to bridge the two important fields of life sciences and molecular electronics. Proteins are remarkable for their ability to recognize molecules and transport electrons, making the integration of proteins into electronic devices a long sought-after goal and leading to the emergence of the field of protein-based bioelectronics, also known as proteotronics. This field seeks to design and create new biomolecular electronic platforms that allow for the understanding and manipulation of protein-mediated electronic charge transport and related functional applications. In recent decades, there have been numerous reports on protein-based bioelectronics using a variety of nano-gapped electrical devices and techniques at the single molecular level, which are not achievable with conventional ensemble approaches. This review focuses on recent advances in physical electron transport mechanisms, device fabrication methodologies, and various applications in protein-based bioelectronics. We discuss the most recent progress of the single or few protein-bridged electrical junction fabrication strategies, summarise the work on fundamental and functional applications of protein bioelectronics that enable high and dynamic electron transport, and highlight future perspectives and challenges that still need to be addressed. We believe that this specific review will stimulate the interdisciplinary research of topics related to protein-related bioelectronics, and open up new possibilities for single-molecule biophysics and biomedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Biao-Feng Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Bintian Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement and Early Warning Technology for Urban Environmental Health Risks, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Longhua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
- Institute of Quantum Sensing, Interdisciplinary Centre for Quantum Information, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kontkanen OV, Biriukov D, Futera Z. Applicability of perturbed matrix method for charge transfer studies at bio/metallic interfaces: a case of azurin. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:12479-12489. [PMID: 37097130 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp00197k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
As the field of nanoelectronics based on biomolecules such as peptides and proteins rapidly grows, there is a need for robust computational methods able to reliably predict charge transfer properties at bio/metallic interfaces. Traditionally, hybrid quantum-mechanical/molecular-mechanical techniques are employed for systems where the electron hopping transfer mechanism is applicable to determine physical parameters controlling the thermodynamics and kinetics of charge transfer processes. However, these approaches are limited by a relatively high computational cost when extensive sampling of a configurational space is required, like in the case of soft biomatter. For these applications, semi-empirical approaches such as the perturbed matrix method (PMM) have been developed and successfully used to study charge-transfer processes in biomolecules. Here, we explore the performance of PMM on prototypical redox-active protein azurin in various environments, from solution to vacuum interfaces with gold surfaces and protein junction. We systematically benchmarked the robustness and convergence of the method with respect to the quantum-centre size, size of the Hamiltonian, number of samples, and level of theory. We show that PMM can adequately capture all the trends associated with the structural and electronic changes related to azurin oxidation at bio/metallic interfaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Outi Vilhelmiina Kontkanen
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 1760, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Denys Biriukov
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 1760, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Futera
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 1760, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang A, Zhuang X, Liu J, Huang J, Lin L, Tang Y, Zhao S, Li R, Wang B, Fang B, Hong W. Catalytic cycle of formate dehydrogenase captured by single-molecule conductance. Nat Catal 2023. [DOI: 10.1038/s41929-023-00928-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
|
10
|
Atkinson JT, Chavez MS, Niman CM, El-Naggar MY. Living electronics: A catalogue of engineered living electronic components. Microb Biotechnol 2023; 16:507-533. [PMID: 36519191 PMCID: PMC9948233 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biology leverages a range of electrical phenomena to extract and store energy, control molecular reactions and enable multicellular communication. Microbes, in particular, have evolved genetically encoded machinery enabling them to utilize the abundant redox-active molecules and minerals available on Earth, which in turn drive global-scale biogeochemical cycles. Recently, the microbial machinery enabling these redox reactions have been leveraged for interfacing cells and biomolecules with electrical circuits for biotechnological applications. Synthetic biology is allowing for the use of these machinery as components of engineered living materials with tuneable electrical properties. Herein, we review the state of such living electronic components including wires, capacitors, transistors, diodes, optoelectronic components, spin filters, sensors, logic processors, bioactuators, information storage media and methods for assembling these components into living electronic circuits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Atkinson
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marko S Chavez
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christina M Niman
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mohamed Y El-Naggar
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Futera Z, Wu X, Blumberger J. Tunneling-to-Hopping Transition in Multiheme Cytochrome Bioelectronic Junctions. J Phys Chem Lett 2023; 14:445-452. [PMID: 36622944 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c03361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Multiheme cytochromes (MHCs) have attracted much interest for use in nanobioelectronic junctions due to their high electronic conductances. Recent measurements on dry MHC junctions suggested that a coherent tunneling mechanism is operative over surprisingly long long distances (>3 nm), which challenges our understanding of coherent transport phenomena. Here we show that this is due to (i) a low exponential distance decay constant for coherent conduction in MHCs (β = 0.2 Å-1) and (ii) a large density of protein electronic states which prolongs the coherent tunneling regime to distances that exceed those in molecular wires made of small molecules. Incoherent hopping conduction is uncompetitive due to the large energy level offset at the protein-electrode interface. Removing this offset, e.g., by gating, we predict that the transport mechanism crosses over from coherent tunneling to incoherent hopping at a protein size of ∼7 nm, thus enabling transport on the micrometer scale with a shallow polynomial (∼1/r) distance decay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zdenek Futera
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 1760, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Xiaojing Wu
- University College London, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K
| | - Jochen Blumberger
- University College London, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zinelli R, Soni S, Cornelissen JJLM, Michel-Souzy S, Nijhuis CA. Charge Transport across Proteins inside Proteins: Tunneling across Encapsulin Protein Cages and the Effect of Cargo Proteins. Biomolecules 2023; 13:174. [PMID: 36671559 PMCID: PMC9855946 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Charge transport across proteins can be surprisingly efficient over long distances-so-called long-range tunneling-but it is still unclear as to why and under which conditions (e.g., presence of co-factors, type of cargo) the long-range tunneling regime can be accessed. This paper describes molecular tunneling junctions based on an encapsulin (Enc), which is a large protein cage with a diameter of 24 nm that can be loaded with various types of (small) proteins, also referred to as "cargo". We demonstrate with dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy that Enc, with and without cargo, can be made stable in solution and immobilized on metal electrodes without aggregation. We investigated the electronic properties of Enc in EGaIn-based tunnel junctions (EGaIn = eutectic alloy of Ga and In that is widely used to contact (bio)molecular monolayers) by measuring the current density for a large range of applied bias of ±2.5 V. The encapsulated cargo has an important effect on the electrical properties of the junctions. The measured current densities are higher for junctions with Enc loaded with redox-active cargo (ferritin-like protein) than those junctions without cargo or redox-inactive cargo (green fluorescent protein). These findings open the door to charge transport studies across complex biomolecular hierarchical structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Zinelli
- Hybrid Materials for Opto-Electronics Group, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
- Biomolecular NanoTechnology, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Saurabh Soni
- Hybrid Materials for Opto-Electronics Group, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J. L. M. Cornelissen
- Biomolecular NanoTechnology, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Michel-Souzy
- Biomolecular NanoTechnology, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Christian A. Nijhuis
- Hybrid Materials for Opto-Electronics Group, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 2017, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Naaman R, Waldeck DH, Fransson J. New Perspective on Electron Transfer through Molecules. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:11753-11759. [PMID: 36516240 PMCID: PMC9791659 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c03141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Motivated by experiments which display unusual length and temperature effects for electron transfer in the nanometer length regime, we propose a new approach for describing long-range electron transfer (ET) processes through molecules. We posit that the electron reorganization in the molecules (e.g., the electronic polarization of a macromolecule or organic film by an applied electric potential, or the injected charge generating a dipole moment) should be included in the description. We numerically solve a one-dimensional model for the electron transport, which includes electron-electron interactions explicitly, and we show that it generates a power law distance dependence for electron transport similar to that observed in experiments. The model does not include vibrations explicitly and should be consistent with the weak temperature dependences observed experimentally. This approach emphasizes the need to treat the electronic changes in the molecule(s) more explicitly to understand the behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ron Naaman
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Physics, Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot76100, Israel
| | - David H. Waldeck
- Chemistry
Department, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania15260, United States
| | - Jonas Fransson
- Department
of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-751 21Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gupta N, Karuppannan SK, Pasula RR, Vilan A, Martin J, Xu W, May EM, Pike AR, Astier HPA, Salim T, Lim S, Nijhuis CA. Temperature-Dependent Coherent Tunneling across Graphene-Ferritin Biomolecular Junctions. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:44665-44675. [PMID: 36148983 PMCID: PMC9542697 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c11263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms of charge transport (CT) across biomolecules in solid-state devices is imperative to realize biomolecular electronic devices in a predictive manner. Although it is well-accepted that biomolecule-electrode interactions play an essential role, it is often overlooked. This paper reveals the prominent role of graphene interfaces with Fe-storing proteins in the net CT across their tunnel junctions. Here, ferritin (AfFtn-AA) is adsorbed on the graphene by noncovalent amine-graphene interactions confirmed with Raman spectroscopy. In contrast to junctions with metal electrodes, graphene has a vanishing density of states toward its intrinsic Fermi level ("Dirac point"), which increases away from the Fermi level. Therefore, the amount of charge carriers is highly sensitive to temperature and electrostatic charging (induced doping), as deduced from a detailed analysis of CT as a function of temperature and iron loading. Remarkably, the temperature dependence can be fully explained within the coherent tunneling regime due to excitation of hot carriers. Graphene is not only demonstrated as an alternative platform to study CT across biomolecular tunnel junctions, but it also opens rich possibilities in employing interface electrostatics in tuning CT behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nipun
Kumar Gupta
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
- Centre
for Advanced 2D Materials, National University
of Singapore, 6 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117546, Singapore
| | - Senthil Kumar Karuppannan
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Rupali Reddy Pasula
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Ayelet Vilan
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Physics, Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Jens Martin
- Centre
for Advanced 2D Materials, National University
of Singapore, 6 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117546, Singapore
| | - Wentao Xu
- Centre
for Advanced 2D Materials, National University
of Singapore, 6 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117546, Singapore
| | - Esther Maria May
- Chemistry-School
of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle
University, Newcastle
upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K.
| | - Andrew R. Pike
- School
of
Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Hippolyte P. A.
G. Astier
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Teddy Salim
- School
of
Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang
Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Sierin Lim
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Christian A. Nijhuis
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
- Centre
for Advanced 2D Materials, National University
of Singapore, 6 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117546, Singapore
- Hybrid
Materials for Opto-Electronics Group, Department of Molecules and
Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and Centre for Brain-Inspired
Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jangir H, Das M. Designing water vapor fuelled brine-silk cocoon protein bio-battery for a self-lighting kettle and water-vapor panels. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13999. [PMID: 35978100 PMCID: PMC9385712 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18211-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Water vapor increases the electrical conductivity of silk cocoons, human hair, jute, and corn silk. This phenomenon is unclear. In the present study, XPS analysis of cocoons showed that water vapor reduces the surface presence of low-energy carbon species (C–C, C–H). In contrast, electron-dense, high-energy carbon species (C–N, C=C, C=O) remained unchanged, possibly enhancing surface charge hopping. While water vapor improves the conduction, the deficiency of charge carrier diminishes the effect. We increase the charge carrier by soaking the cocoon in an aqueous solution of common salt (NaCl) to amplify the current. Salt treatment followed by 2-min exposure to water vapor results in a sharp upward spike in the current (3.6 ± 1.07 mA, n = 12; mean ± SE) from the baseline (0.06 ± 0.02 mA, n = 12). After 1 h, it maintains an average value of 0.39 ± 0.12 mA; n = 12, indicating an upward shift in the baseline. Every time the cocoon charges with water vapor, the next charging cycle initiates after the cocoon dries up. Inspired by the cocoon ecology, we demonstrate an alternating 'water vapor–dry air' cycle for rapid charging and discharging of the cocoon battery. Finally, we designed a prototype of a self-lighting kettle and water–vapor panels for futuristic homes using a 'brine-silk cocoon protein bio-battery,' where moist waste heat generates electricity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Himanshi Jangir
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Fl, 32826, USA.
| | - Mainak Das
- Design Department, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, UP, 208016, India.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
He Q, Tang L. Sub-5 nm nanogap electrodes towards single-molecular biosensing. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 213:114486. [PMID: 35749816 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Nanogap electrodes (NGEs) with sub-5 nm gap has been widely used in single-molecule sensing and sequencing, with the characteristics of label-free, high sensitivity, rapid detection and low-cost. However, the fabrication of sub-5 nm gap electrodes with high controllability and reproducibility still remains a great challenge that impedes the experimental research and the commercialization of the nanogap device. Here, we review the common currently used fabrication methods of nanogap electrodes, such as gap narrowing deposition, mechanical controllable break junctions and the fabrication methods combined with nanopore or nanochannel. We then highlight the typical applications of nanogap electrodes in biological/chemical sensing fields, including single molecule recognition, single molecule sequencing and chemical kinetics analysis. Finally, the challenges of nanogap electrodes in single molecule sensing/sequencing are outlined and the future directions for sensing perspectives are suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxiang He
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Longhua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kontkanen OV, Biriukov D, Futera Z. Reorganization Free Energy of Copper Proteins in Solution, in Vacuum, and on Metal Surfaces. J Chem Phys 2022; 156:175101. [DOI: 10.1063/5.0085141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metalloproteins, known to efficiently transfer electronic charge in biological systems, recently found their utilization in nanobiotechnological devices where the protein is placed into direct contact with metal surfaces. The feasibility of oxidation/reduction of the protein redox sites is affected by the reorganization free energies, one of the key parameters determining the transfer rates. While their values have been measured and computed for proteins in their native environments, i.e., in aqueous solution, the reorganization free energies of dry proteins or proteins adsorbed to metal surfaces remain unknown. Here, we investigate the redox properties of blue copper protein azurin, a prototypical redox-active metalloprotein previously probed by various experimental techniques both in solution and on metal/vacuum interfaces. We used a hybrid QM/MM computational technique based on DFT to explore protein dynamics, flexibility, and corresponding reorganization free energies in aqueous solution, vacuum, and on vacuum gold interfaces. Somewhat surprisingly, the reorganization free energy only slightly decreases when azurin is dried because the loss of the hydration shell leads to larger flexibility of the protein near its redox site. At the vacuum gold surfaces, the energetics of the structure relaxation depends on the adsorption geometry, however, significant reduction of the reorganization free energy was not observed. These findings have important consequences for the charge transport mechanism in vacuum devices, showing that the free energy barriers for protein oxidation remain significant even under ultra-high vacuum conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Denys Biriukov
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Czech Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Futera
- University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice Faculty of Science, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|