Biosensors for the programmed cell death (apoptosis)

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Apoptosis has gained significant importance in human diseases and its clinical management. Failure to regulate apoptosis is a common feature in several diseases including neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and AIDS. Hence, it is important to understand the apoptotic processes in order to devise therapeutic means to intervene and reset the balance between cell survival and death. The objective of this research program is to gain an understanding of apoptosis using nanoparticle-conjugated biomarkers. The methodology relies on the modification of solid surfaces with biomolecules (cells, peptides and enzymes) followed by the detection using electrochemical (cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) and optical (fluorescence spectroscopy and surface plasmon resonance) techniques. The research program includes interlinked sub-projects, which involve the detection of the apoptosis-induced changes that occur at the plasma membrane and the activation of caspases in the cytoplasm. The expected results should lead to the development of an analytical approach to the biological chemistry of apoptosis. By better understanding apoptosis pathways, novel therapeutic agents may be developed to induce death in cancerous cells. From the analytical approach proposed here, it will be possible to assign and elucidate the majority of functional biomolecules in apoptosis and provide information regarding cellular reactivity, and interactions with nanomaterials. The research plan will provide unique opportunities for the elucidation of nanomaterials and their interactions with biomolecules, and such analytical approaches are crucial, if we are to eventually understand the effect of nanomaterials in living systems on a global scale.