Quantum Dot Based Fluorometric Detection of Cancer TF-Antigen

Cancer is a major global health challenge that would benefit from advances in screening methods for early detection that are rapid and low cost. TF-antigen is a tumor-associated antigen displayed on cell surface proteins of a high percentage of human carcinomas. Here we present a fluorometric bioassay for TF-antigen (galactose-β-(1→3)-N-acetyl-d-galactosamine) that utilizes quantum dot (QD) technology coupled with magnetic beads for rapid detection of TF-antigen at high sensitivity (10–7 M range). In the competitive bioassay, 4-aminophenyl β-d-galactopyranoside (4-APG) conjugated to QDs competes with TF-antigen for binding sites on peanut agglutinin (PNA) that is immobilized on magnetic beads. The bioassay is specific and ultrasensitive in the environment of complex protein mixtures, demonstrating its potential applicability for the screening of clinical samples.