Selective detection of phospholipids using molecularly imprinted fluorescent sensory core-shell particles

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid involved in G-protein coupled receptor signaling.
• Accurate monitoring of S1P levels is difficult due to its low concentration and lack of sensitive detection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel fluorescent sensory particles for detecting S1P and fingolimod phosphate (FP).
• To assess the particles' responsiveness to physiologically relevant S1P concentrations in human serum.

Main Methods:

• Core-shell molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) particles were synthesized using RAFT polymerization.
• A polymerizable nitrobenzoxadiazole (NBD)-urea monomer was used for template binding and fluorescence signaling.
• Particles were tested for responsiveness to S1P and DPPA in buffered solutions and spiked human serum.

Main Results:

• The MIP particles exhibited selective fluorescence responses to S1P and DPPA.
• Detection limits in spiked serum samples were as low as 5.6 µM for S1P.
• A linear detection range of 18-60 µM was established for S1P.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescent sensory MIP particles show potential for monitoring S1P in biological fluids.
• The developed sensor offers a sensitive and selective method for lipid biomarker detection.