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In the context of detecting chemicals in either the aqueous or vapor
phase, two general biological approaches have emerged. The first
relies on individual, highly specific single receptors (sensors), each
tuned to detect a single molecular species. Some examples include the
receptors that mediate pheromone detection in insects, or those that
function in neurotransmission.
The second approach, represented by the DNA sensors, is implemented by
arrays of receptors with relatively broad responses. Here, specificity
emerges from a constellation of receptor types that recognizes the
molecule of interest. An example is the olfactory receptors in the
main olfactory system of vertebrates.
This study not only highlights DNA�s potential for use in a novel and
powerful odor detection system, but it also highlights its potential
to play other novel roles in vivo, for example as a small molecule
receptor, well outside of its familiar one as the repository of
information in the genome.
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