Water-stable luminescent metal-organic framework as selective biosensors for the prognosis of Head and Neck Câncer

Abstract

The incidence of Cancer has increased significantly worldwide, and it can be considered one of the most important public health problems. Head and Neck Cancer, listed among the most frequent malignant tumors, has a considerable mortality rate while its survival rate stands out when detected early. The main problem associated with this neoplasm refers to the high number of deaths resulting from late diagnosis methods. Thus, it is crucial to detect the disease at an early stage. In order to prevent disease progression, the immobilization of biomarkers in nanostructures for Head and Neck Cancer is an effective tool. This is possible because such structures have great potential in monitoring studies, enabling greater success in the treatment of patients. Among the endless types of nanomaterials, the Lanthanoid Organic Frameworks (LOFs) have been gaining prominence for this purpose, since they have several active sites added to a high sensitivity and specificity, in addition to outstanding optical properties. (high luminescence). In this context, the appeal of this proposal is to develop ZIF-8 (electrochemical biosensor) MOFs and NMOF-1 (optical biosensor) LOFs structures and simultaneously immobilize different biomarkers of Head and Neck Cancer and proteins from liquid biopsies ( body fluids such as saliva) on its surface. In a complementary way, we will support the systems in carbon-based materials in an attempt to produce composites with luminescent activity in an aqueous environment (hydrophobicity modulation). The different wettability responses will be achieved through surface modifications of the material on which the biosensors will be supported. As potential biomarkers, we will use antibodies to three target proteins: leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H), cystatin B (CSTB) and collagen VI alpha 1 (COL6A1), previously verified in saliva of patients with oral Cancer. Fluorescent devices (LOF + biomarkers) will be extensively characterized by physicochemical techniques. The success of biomarker immobilization will be evaluated by different strategies of antigen-antibody interaction. The response of the devices will be obtained by electrochemical or spectrophotometric method. Together, our results will attempt to identify a prognostic signature that will assist in the clinical decision-making process, thus improving the survival of patients with Head and Neck Cancer. (AU)