In a groundbreaking development in the realms of healthcare and forensic science, a pioneering patent has been granted for a novel peptide and its conjugate designed to detect Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) which is a protein produced by prostate gland in males. PSA is used for early diagnosis of prostate cancer in the healthcare system and semen detection in sexual assault cases.
The novel peptide specific to PSA is used as a biorecognition element in order to fabricate the biosensor for the detection of PSA. Presence of PSA was detected based on the change in colour of the novel peptide-gold nanoparticle conjugate from red to blue/purple.
In the ongoing work, this peptide-gold nanoparticle conjugate is being developed into a prototype which will serve as a user-friendly home-test diagnostic tool. This innovation will be a significant milestone in the current battle against prostate cancer, offering potential for its early diagnosis. Semen traces in forensic investigations can also be detected by using this user friendly prototype with a significant advancement in the pursuit of justice for sexual assault survivors. With its dual applications, this innovative peptide promises to redefine the ongoing practices of healthcare system and forensic investigations.
Inventors: Dr. Avneet Saini Assistant Professor Department of Biophysics, PU, Dr. Shweta Sharma Assistant Professor, Institute of Forensic Science and Criminology, PU, Dr. Sheetal Sharma Former Research scholar, Post Doctoral Fellow, and Guest faculty, Department of Biophysics, PU, Currently, Instructor in Biological Systems Engineering, Plaksha University and Ms. Panchali Barman, Pursuing PhD Panjab University.
