What are the Common Techniques Used in Protein Identification?
Several techniques are employed in the identification of proteins using nanotechnology:
Mass Spectrometry (MS): Mass spectrometry, often coupled with nano-liquid chromatography, allows for the precise measurement of the mass-to-charge ratio of protein fragments. Nanoscale Biosensors: These include sensors made from materials like gold nanoparticles or carbon nanotubes that can detect proteins at very low concentrations. Quantum Dots: These are semiconductor nanocrystals that can be used as fluorescent probes for protein detection due to their unique optical properties. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): AFM provides high-resolution imaging of proteins and can be used to study protein-protein interactions.
