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Chronocoulometric signalling of BNP using a novel quantum dot aptasensor
Marlon Oranzie1,2, Samantha F Douman2, Onyinyechi V Uhuo1
1SensorLab (University of the Western Cape Sensor Laboratories), Chemical Sciences Building, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, Cape Town, South Africa. eiwuoha@uwc.ac.za.
This study introduces a novel electrochemical aptasensor using mercaptosuccinic acid-nickel selenide quantum dots (MSA-NiSe2 QDs) for detecting brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). The aptasensor demonstrates high selectivity and sensitivity in detecting BNP in biological samples.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biosensors
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a crucial biomarker for diagnosing heart failure.
- Current detection methods often lack sensitivity or require complex procedures.
- Development of rapid, sensitive, and selective biosensors is essential for early diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel electrochemical aptasensor for sensitive and selective detection of BNP.
- To synthesize and characterize mercaptosuccinic acid-nickel selenide quantum dots (MSA-NiSe2 QDs).
- To evaluate the performance of the MSA-NiSe2 QDs-based aptasensor in physiological buffer and human plasma.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of MSA-NiSe2 QDs via microwave irradiation.
- Fabrication of the aptasensor by immobilizing DNA aptamers onto a disposable sensing interface using EDC/NHS coupling chemistry.
- Electrochemical analysis for BNP detection, including selectivity and sensitivity studies.
Main Results:
- Spherical MSA-NiSe2 QDs with an average diameter of 2 nm were successfully synthesized.
- The aptasensor exhibited high selectivity towards BNP.
- Detection limits for BNP were achieved at 5.45 pg mL-1 in physiological buffer and 31.95 pg mL-1 in human plasma.
- A 3-fold enhancement in aptamer loading capacity was observed with MSA-NiSe2 QDs.
Conclusions:
- The developed MSA-NiSe2 QDs-based electrochemical aptasensor offers a promising platform for sensitive and selective BNP detection.
- The novel QDs enhance aptamer loading capacity and sensor performance.
- The findings suggest potential adaptability of these QDs for other diagnostic applications.
