An in-silico layer-by-layer adsorption study of the interaction between Rebaudioside A and the T1R2 human sweet taste receptor: modelling and biosensing perspectives

Sci Rep. 2020 Oct 27;10(1):18391. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-75123-4.

Abstract

The human sweet taste receptor (T1R2) monomer-a member of the G-protein coupled receptor family that detects a wide variety of chemically and structurally diverse sweet tasting molecules, is known to pose a significant threat to human health. Protein that lack crystal structure is a challenge in structure-based protein design. This study focused on the interaction of the T1R2 monomer with rebaudioside A (Reb-A), a steviol glycoside with potential use as a natural sweetener using in-silico and biosensing methods. Herein, homology modelling, docking studies, and molecular dynamics simulations were applied to elucidate the interaction between Reb-A and the T1R2 monomer. In addition, the electrochemical sensing of the immobilised T1R2-Reb-A complex with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and graphene oxide (GO) were assessed by testing the performance of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) as an adsorbent experimentally. Results indicate a strong interaction between Reb-A and the T1R2 receptor, revealing the stabilizing interaction of the amino acids with the Reb-A by hydrogen bonds with the hydroxyl groups of the glucose moieties, along with a significant amount of hydrophobic interactions. Moreover, the presence of the MWCNT as an anchor confirms the adsorption strength of the T1R2-Reb-A complex onto the GO nanocomposite and supported with electrochemical measurements. Overall, this study could serve as a cornerstone in the development of electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of Reb-A, with applications in the food industry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Biosensing Techniques
  • Computer Simulation
  • Diterpenes, Kaurane / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Molecular Docking Simulation
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation
  • Protein Binding
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / chemistry*
  • Sweetening Agents / chemistry*
  • Taste Buds / chemistry*

Substances

  • Diterpenes, Kaurane
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • Sweetening Agents
  • rebaudioside A