A supramolecule based fluorescence turn-on and ratiometric sensor for ATP in aqueous solution

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is vital for biological energy transfer.
• Existing ATP fluorescent sensors often have complex synthesis, poor solubility, and single-wavelength limitations.
• Sensitive and selective ATP detection is crucial for diagnosing diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, sensitive, and selective fluorescent sensor for ATP detection.
• To overcome the limitations of existing ATP sensor probes, such as complex synthesis and single-wavelength operation.
• To create a ratiometric sensor for robust ATP detection in aqueous solutions and biological samples.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a Thioflavin-T-sulphated-β-cyclodextrin supramolecular assembly.
• Employed Zn2+ to induce dissociation and ATP to induce reassociation of the assembly.
• Developed a fluorescence turn-on ratiometric sensing mechanism based on assembly modulation.

Main Results:

• The sensor demonstrated a fluorescence turn-on response upon ATP detection.
• Achieved simple, sensitive, selective, and label-free detection of ATP in aqueous solutions.
• The sensor platform showed reliable performance in complex biological media, including serum samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed supramolecular ensemble provides an effective platform for ratiometric ATP sensing.
• This method offers a significant improvement over existing sensors due to its simplicity and robustness.
• The sensor's applicability in serum samples highlights its potential for real-world diagnostic applications.