Highly sensitive electrochemical biosensor for MMP-2 detection using multi-stage amplification with PNA T7 RNA polymerase and split CRISPR/Cas12a

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are critical for the degradation of extracellular matrix components, which is essential for processes such as tissue remodeling, wound healing, and angiogenesis. MMP-2, in particular, degrades type IV collagen and is associated with diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions, making it a significant biomarker. This study presents a novel electrochemical biosensor for the detection of MMP-2. The biosensor combines the specificity of a programmable RNA detection system with the amplification capabilities of T7 RNA polymerase and CRISPR/Cas12a. In the absence of MMP-2, Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) adsorbs on the DNA template, preventing RNA amplification and resulting in a low electrochemical signal. When MMP-2 is present, it cleaves a specific peptide, releasing the DNA template and enabling RNA synthesis. This activation leads to the cleavage of single-stranded DNA probes, increasing the electrochemical signal. The biosensor demonstrates high sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.496 fM for MMP-2 and excellent specificity, effectively distinguishing MMP-2 from other proteins. It successfully detected MMP-2 in biological samples, such as liver cancer cell supernatants, indicating its potential for clinical diagnostics. This innovative biosensor offers a powerful tool for the early detection and monitoring of diseases associated with MMP-2 activity.