OBJECTIVETo develop a method for enriching methylated DNA in clinical samples using mesocellular silica foams (MCFs) immobilized with methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD).

METHODSMCFs with ultra-large pore size were synthesized, functionalized and immobilized with GST-MBD.

RESULTSThe large cage-like pore structures of MCF materials was retained after functionalization and immobilization, with pore diameter of 55 nm, window size of 30 nm, and a high pore volume of 1.0 cm(3)/g. The loading amount of MBD was as high as 53 wt%. Immobilized MBD showed high binding activity and stability. In a binding buffer with salt concentrations ranging 500-550 mmol/L, the MCF-MBD can selectively enrich methylated DNA from the mixed DNA solution.

CONCLUSIONThe MCF-MBD method may offer a better choice for high-throughout DNA methylation screening, and has laid a foundation for clinical application, prenatal diagnosis and research on DNA methylation-related genetic diseases.