A Platform for the Detection of Trypanosomes Via Selective Small Molecule Recognition

Abstract

Trypanothione (TSH₂), a metabolite unique to trypanosomal parasites, was evaluated as a potential biomarker for trypanosomal infection using fluorescence as the means of detection. Fluoroescein arsenical helix binder (FLASH) was prepared and used to detect TSH₂. Since it has low background fluorescence and forms a highly emissive complex with TSH₂, it can be used to detect low micromolar concentrations of TSH₂ in serum. The large dynamic range of FLASH and its selectivity for detection of the dithiol metabolite indicate that arsenical probes may offer a promising new platform for the diagnosis of trypanosomal infection.

Keywords: Trypanosomes, trypanothione, Chagas’ disease, human African trypanosomiasis, African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis, diagnostic, fluorescein arsenical helix binder (FLASH)