Peptide receptor-based selective dinitrotoluene detection using a microcantilever sensor

► Peptides successfully utilize as a receptor molecule for highly selective detection in the gas phase of DNT. ► Formation of the peptide receptor on the gold layer of microcantilevers surface is examined by MALDI-TOF method. ► The resonant frequency of DNT specific peptide immobilized microcantilevers is changed due to only specific interaction between DNT and peptide. ► The false interaction caused by any other effects does not occur on the microcantilever surface. We reported that peptide could be utilized as receptor molecule in the gas phase for application in micro/nano sensors by using a specific peptide that recognizes 2,4-dinitrotoluene at room temperature and in an atmospheric environment and measuring changes in the resonant frequency of the peptide immobilized microcantilevers. By using these peptides as receptors on a microcantilever sensor, we were able to experimentally detect 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) vapor at concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb) in the gas phase. While resonant frequency changes after binding between 2,4-DNT and the specific peptide receptor that was immobilized on microcantilevers were observed, the resonant frequency of DNT nonspecific peptide immobilized microcantilever did not change when exposed to 2,4-DNT vapor. The limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 431 ppt of limit of detection is numerically expected by experimental based on an equation that describes the relationship between the noise-equivalent analyte concentration. These results indicate that the peptide receptors hold great promise for use in the development of an artificial olfactory system and electronic nose based on micro/nanotechnology for monitoring various chemical vapors in the gas phase such as explosive mixtures of chemicals and/or volatile organic compounds.