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

Abstract

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.