PFAS Binding Proteins for Single-Digit PPT Water Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting ultra-low concentrations of per-and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) in water are inadequate, lacking specificity and rapidity, and there is a need for improved compositions that can accurately detect single digit parts-per-trillion levels of PFAS compounds with minimal operator intervention.
Innovation Solution
Development of PFAS binding proteins, including anti-PFAS antibodies and biosimilars, which can specifically bind to PFAS compounds such as PFOA and PFOS, integrated into detection systems using electroactive surfaces or optical waveguides to detect PFAS compounds through electrochemical or optical methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detection methods are used, then detection capability is provided, but measurement precision and specificity are insufficient for ultra-low concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs PFAS binding proteins (antibodies, nanobodies, monoclonal antibodies) as intermediary molecules that specifically bind to PFAS compounds. These proteins serve as mediators between the detection system and the target analyte, enabling highly sensitive and specific detection at ultra-low concentrations through their high affinity binding characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical or chemical detection methods with bio-based detection mechanisms utilizing PFAS binding proteins. The detection system substitutes traditional analytical instrumentation with biological recognition elements that provide superior sensitivity and specificity for PFAS detection at parts-per-trillion levels
2Speed
If detection systems are developed for rapid detection, then detection speed is improved, but measurement precision and specificity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The PFAS binding proteins perform self-recognition and self-binding functions, automatically identifying and binding to PFAS compounds without requiring complex external stimulation or processing. This self-service mechanism enables rapid detection while maintaining high precision, as the proteins inherently possess the specificity needed for accurate identification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the high affinity binding parameters of PFAS binding proteins to achieve rapid yet precise detection. By leveraging the inherent binding characteristics of these proteins, the system achieves fast response times without sacrificing measurement precision, as the proteins are already optimized for specific PFAS recognition
3Measurement precision
If specificity to PFAS compounds is enhanced, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates specific binding functions from complex detection systems by using purified PFAS binding proteins. These extracted protein components provide the necessary specificity for accurate PFAS detection while simplifying the overall system architecture, as the proteins can be incorporated into various detection platforms without requiring complex multi-component systems
Solution Approach 2:
The PFAS binding proteins exhibit universal applicability across different detection methodologies and PFAS compound types. These proteins can be integrated into electrochemical sensors, optical sensors, and other detection platforms, providing a single versatile solution that achieves high accuracy without requiring multiple specialized components
4Measurement precision
If detection sensitivity is increased for single digit ppt levels, then detection capability is improved, but operator intervention and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system utilizing PFAS binding proteins performs self-service operations for sample processing and analyte identification. The proteins automatically bind to PFAS compounds and trigger detection signals without requiring manual manipulation or complex operational procedures, enabling high-sensitivity detection while maintaining ease of operation for end users
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The PFAS binding proteins enable detection of PFAS compounds at single digit parts-per-trillion levels with high specificity and sensitivity, providing a rapid and accurate detection system for environmental monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
PFAS binding proteins, including anti-PFAS antibodies, including nanobodies, monobodies, single chain variable fragments
Implementation Method 2
integrated into detection systems using electroactive surfaces or optical waveguides to detect PFAS compounds through electrochemical or optical methods
Implementation Method 3
integrated into detection systems using electroactive surfaces or optical waveguides to detect PFAS compounds through electrochemical or optical methods
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are per- and polyfluoroalkyl compound (PFAS) binding proteins. including anti-PFAS antibodies and biosimilars thereof, and uses of the compositions for detecting PFAS.