A chitosan gold nanoparticles molecularly imprinted polymer based ciprofloxacin sensor

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Nanomaterials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance necessitates sensitive detection methods for pharmaceuticals like ciprofloxacin (CIP).
• Developing selective and sensitive sensors is crucial for monitoring environmental and food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel electrochemical biomimetic sensor for ciprofloxacin detection.
• To utilize a chitosan gold nanoparticles decorated molecularly imprinted polymer (Ch-AuMIP) for enhanced sensor performance.

Main Methods:

• Modification of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with Ch-AuMIP.
• Characterization of Ch-AuMIP using FT-IR, SEM, AFM, and CV.
• Optimization of sensor parameters including removal agent, extraction time, and rebinding time.

Main Results:

• The sensor exhibited a limit of detection of 210 nmol L⁻¹ for CIP in the concentration range of 1-100 μmol L⁻¹.
• Demonstrated high selectivity for CIP over interfering species and analogue molecules (Norfloxacin, Ofloxacin).
• Achieved satisfactory recovery rates (94-106%) in real samples such as tap water, mineral water, milk, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Conclusions:

• The developed Ch-AuMIP/GCE sensor offers a sensitive, selective, and reliable platform for ciprofloxacin detection.
• The synergistic effect of gold nanoparticles and molecularly imprinted polymers enhances sensing capabilities.
• The sensor's applicability in real-world samples highlights its potential for environmental and food safety monitoring.