Detection of glycan-binding proteins using glycan-functionalized quantum dots and gold nanoparticles

Many pathogens can use their glycan-binding proteins (GBPs) to interact with glycan receptors on host cell surface. Here, a novel strategy is presented for the detection of GBPs based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Using mannose-functionalized quantum dots and mannose-functionalized gold nanoparticles, a FRET assay system was developed and a mannose-specific GBP concanavalin A could be detected in 5 min with a detection limit of 3 nM. This result indicated the potential for rapid and sensitive biosensing of various kinds of GBPs and pathogens by changing the glycan structure on the surface of QDs and AuNPs.