Defense Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Physics and Applied Physics
First Advisor
Joseph Reiner
Abstract
Nanopore sensing was first proposed more than three decades ago as a means to perform sensing of DNA and has since expanded the scientific community’s ability to perform sequencing and other single molecule measurements. Recent developments have focused on protein sensing which have proven to be more challenging and led to innovative solutions to produce accurate and insightful measurements. In particular, our research group has focused on analyzing protein complexes that are bound to gold nanoparticles (AuNP) and their dynamics within a nanopore that lead to unique current fluctuations. However, the dynamics behind these mechanisms are not clearly understood, and tools such as molecular dynamics (MD) simulation provide a pathway for elucidating and experimenting with such systems In-Silico before moving to the lab. This work leverages MD simulation to understand the Bio-Physics present in such systems. By understanding the conformation, charge and steric behaviors of AuNP-Peptide complexes in solution, researchers can build an understanding for how changes in such a system may result in the distinct blockade current states seen and promote future research pathways in nanopore experiments.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-11-2024
Included in
Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics Commons, Biological and Chemical Physics Commons, Biophysics Commons