Quantum dots (QDs) based fluorescent sensor for the selective determination of nimesulide

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) based fluorescent sensors are gaining prominence.
• Quantum dots (QDs) offer unique optical properties for sensing applications.
• Nimesulide (NIM) is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel PET-based fluorescent sensor for the trace determination of Nimesulide (NIM).
• To utilize unmodified Cadmium Selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) for enhanced sensitivity and selectivity.
• To demonstrate the sensor's applicability in pharmaceutical formulations.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a fluorescent sensor using unmodified CdSe QDs.
• Exploitation of selective fluorescence quenching of QDs by NIM.
• Linear regression analysis to establish concentration-dependent quenching intensity.
• Investigation of the interaction mechanism between QDs and NIM.

Main Results:

• The developed sensor demonstrated selective fluorescence quenching by NIM in the presence of other NSAIDs.
• A linear relationship was observed between NIM concentration (8.2 × 10⁻⁷ - 4.01 × 10⁻⁵ M) and fluorescence quenching intensity.
• The interaction mechanism was elucidated.
• Successful application in the trace determination of NIM in pharmaceutical formulations.

Conclusions:

• A novel and selective fluorescent sensor for trace Nimesulide (NIM) determination was successfully developed using CdSe quantum dots (QDs).
• The sensor exhibits a linear response within a specific concentration range, indicating its quantitative capability.
• The method shows potential for practical application in analyzing NIM in pharmaceutical products.