Chiral discrimination using an immunosensor.

Hofstetter, O; Hofstetter, H; Wilchek, M; Schurig, V; Green, B S · Nat Biotechnol · 1999

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Based on the stereoselectivity of immunoglobulins, we have developed a new chiral sensor for the detection of low-molecular-weight analytes. Using surface plasmon resonance detection, enantiomers of free, underivatized alpha-amino acids can be monitored in a competitive assay by their interaction with antibodies specific for the chiral center of this class of substances. The sensitivity to the minor enantiomer in nonracemic mixtures exceeds currently available methods; therefore, such immunosensors can readily detect traces of enantiomeric impurities and are attractive for a range of applications in science and industry.

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