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Updated: Sep 6, 2025
Author Spotlight: Development and Application of SERS Flexible Substrates Using Synthesized AgNPs
Published on: November 17, 2023
A molecularly-imprinted SERS sensor based on a TiO2@Ag substrate for the selective capture and sensitive detection of
Chen Chen1, Ximo Wang1, Yingfang Zhang1
1Key Laboratory of Food Processing Technology and Quality Control in Shandong Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Herein, a molecularly imprinted surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) sensor was developed for the selective capture and sensitive detection of tryptamine in foods. The SERS sensor exploited silver nanoparticle-decorated TiO2 (TiO2@Ag) substrates for Raman signal enhancement via synergistic effect of electromagnetic enhancement and photoinduced charge-transfer, whilst surface functionalization with the molecularly imprinted polymer ensured selective tryptamine capture. The SERS spectrum of tryptamine on the sensor closely matched that predicted by density functional simulations. The SERS intensity for tryptamine on the developed TiO2@Ag@MIP sensor increased linearly with the logarithm of the tryptamine concentration over the range of 10-6-10-2 mol L-1, with a LOD of 4.85 × 10-7 mol L-1. Tryptamine was detected in a spiked white vinegar sample, and its recoveries were in the range of 92.00%-111.40%. The SERS sensor could be used for the detection of tryptamine in actual samples.
