Fig. 1 Schematic of the fluorescence assay.

Introduction

Our group is developing an electrochemical aptamer-based biosensor platform for the detection of dopamine. This system utilizes a dual-electrode design with DNA sensing probes, enabling signal-on sensing with minimal background interference. Building on this, we are now expanding our research to explore the versatility of this approach for detecting other clinically relevant small molecules.

You will be involved in adapting our established dopamine detection system (using fluorescence quenching/recovery) to one selected target (cortisol, levodopa, or creatinine), with an emphasis on optimizing the probe, with optional translation to electrochemical detection on gold electrodes.

Working Principle

The system is based on an "aptamer-complementary strand" probe complex:

Aptamer: 3' end modified with a quencher 

Complementary strand: 5' end labeled with FAM fluorophore

Target binding induces conformational change → complementary strand release → fluorescence recovery proportional to target concentration

Project objectives & Research method

The student will select one target molecule from three options: cortisol, creatinine or levodopa. Using our established fluorescence quenching and recovery assay, the project aims to develop and optimize aptamer-based probes for the chosen target. This work will involve sequence design and fluorescence measurements. 

Requirements

-Wet lab experience (highly preferred)

-Background in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field

-Clean room fabrication skills (optional)

Possible starting date & further information

Potential starting date is now. For further details and application contact senyao.wang(at)tum.de

Additional information

Address:

Munich School of Biomedical Engineering
Room 5701.01.018
Boltzmannstr. 11
85748 Garching b. München

Mail:

senyao.wang@tum.de

bernhard.wolfrum@tum.de