Visual detection of lead(II) using a label-free DNA-based sensor and its immobilization within a monolithic hydrogel

Lead is highly toxic and its detection has attracted a lot of research interests. In recent years, DNA has been used for Pb(2+) recognition and many fluorescent sensors with low to sub-nM detection limits have been reported. These figures of merit were typically measured using a spectrophotometer that can detect nM DNA with a high signal-to-noise ratio. For visual detection, however, μM DNA or dye was required, making it difficult to detect low nM targets. We recently achieved a visual sensitivity of 10 nM Hg(2+) by immobilizing a DNA probe in a hydrogel. This was made possible because the gel was able to actively adsorb Hg(2+). In this work, we aim to test whether this method can be extended to the detection of Pb(2+). First, a new Pb(2+) sensor was designed based on a guanine-rich DNA and DNA binding dyes such as thiazole orange and SYBR Green I. The free DNA showed a detection limit of 8 nM Pb(2+) using 40 nM DNA. For visual detection in solution with 1 μM of the DNA probe, however, ∼300 nM Pb(2+) was required. After immobilization in a monolithic polyacrylamide hydrogel, even 20 nM Pb(2+) could be visually detected with a sample volume of 50 mL. Therefore, sensitive detection without signal amplification was achieved. Finally, we demonstrated simultaneous detection of both Hg(2+) and Pb(2+) in the same water sample with shape encoded hydrogel sensors.