Molecular Organ Lysate Imprinting: For Precision Recognition and Analysis of Organ-Derived Proteins

Abstract

Rationale

Molecular imprinting has emerged as a promising strategy to create custom imprints for precision recognition of proteins. This study proposes using dopamine polymers as a novel approach to enhance the retrieval of proteins from human plasma. Dopamine polymers possess adhesive properties due to their ability to form hydrophobic interactions, π-π, hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces with various substrates; in this study, we have leveraged these adhesive properties to capture and retrieve proteins from complex biological samples.

Methods

We imprinted proteins derived from mouse heart lysate and evaluated the performance of the resulting molecularly imprinted polymer for retrieval of the human protein cardiovascular disease plasma samples.

Results

Our results demonstrated the retrieval of troponin T, fatty acid–binding protein, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and myosin-binding protein C. This novel application of dopamine polymers in protein enrichment and analysis facilitates the discovery of novel biomarkers from complex matrices, such as plasma, and promotes deeper insights into complex biological processes.

Conclusions

This method, characterized by high specificity and stability, offers a new approach for the detection of low abundant proteins and provides a scientific basis for the future development of new diagnostic tools and personalized medical strategies.