A graphene oxide-based strand displacement amplification platform for ricin detection using aptamer as recognition...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Ricin is a toxic plant protein posing a significant bioterrorism threat due to its accessibility.
• Effective detection methods are crucial for mitigating ricin-related risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, sensitive, and rapid detection strategy for ricin B-chain (RTB).
• To utilize aptamers and graphene oxide for enhanced detection performance.

Main Methods:

• Isothermal strand-displacement polymerase reaction (ISDPR) coupled with aptamer recognition.
• Graphene oxide (GO) employed as a low-background platform for signal amplification.
• Detection based on fluorescence signal changes triggered by RTB binding.

Main Results:

• The developed system achieved a linear detection range from 0.75μg/mL to 100μg/mL.
• A low limit of detection (3σ) of 0.6μg/mL for RTB was established.
• Successful detection of RTB and whole ricin toxin in real samples was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The novel ISDPR method provides a sensitive and reliable approach for ricin detection.
• The strategy is adaptable for detecting various targets by employing specific aptamers.
• This offers a promising tool for bioterrorism surveillance and diagnostics.