High performance 3-methyl-1-butanol gas sensor based on olfactory receptor derived peptide on pyramidal-structure substrates

Detection of bacterial contamination in food is a critical issue for ensuring public health and safety. In response, we present a high-performing olfactory receptor-derived peptide (ORP) sensor for the detection of 3-methyl-1-butanol, a by-product produced by common meat-borne bacteria. Our approach involved the covalent attachment of ORPs to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a combination of pyramidal silicon substrate modification, thioester modification of CNTs, and chemical ligation of n-terminus cysteine-modified ORPs. The resulting sensor showed remarkable sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.0001 ppt-three orders of magnitude lower than previous reports. Moreover, our results demonstrate the sensor's selectivity and stability, making it a promising tool for a variety of applications, including food safety, medical detection, and environmental protection.

Automated summary

Detection of bacterial contamination in food is crucial for public health and safety. In this study, we developed a highly sensitive olfactory receptor-derived peptide (ORP) sensor for detecting 3-methyl-1-butanol, a by-product of common meat-borne bacteria. The sensor, which was attached to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a combination of substrate modification, thioester modification, and chemical ligation, exhibited remarkable sensitivity with a detection limit three orders of magnitude lower than previous reports. The selectivity and stability of the sensor make it a promising tool for applications in food safety, medical detection, and environmental protection.