Quantum-Si’s Next-Generation Protein Sequencer™ Enables Protein Detection and Peptide Characterization from Biological Samples

Studies of the proteome would greatly benefit from methods that enable direct protein detection and peptide characterization with exceptional sensitivity. In this context, we present the unique capabilities of Next-Generation Protein Sequencing™ on Quantum-Si’s Platinum® instrument, which utilizes single-molecule protein sequencing to achieve detection of unknown proteins and protein variants. Individual peptides are digested from proteins, immobilized on a semiconductor chip, and probed by dye-labeled N-terminal amino acid (NAA) recognizers, followed by subsequent aminopeptidase cleavage to expose
each NAA in the peptide for recognition. Through the recording and analysis of fluorescent intensity, lifetime, and binding kinetics of each NAA binding event, we can successfully identify proteins and detect PTMs.