An Alkyne-Mediated SERS Aptasensor for Anti-Interference Ochratoxin A Detection in Real Samples

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biosensing Technology

Background:

• Mycotoxin detection in food faces interference challenges with current SERS methods.
• Precise and sensitive quantification of Ochratoxin A (OTA) is crucial for food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly sensitive and specific aptasensor for anti-interference detection of OTA.
• To overcome limitations of SERS in complex food matrices.

Main Methods:

• Assembled 4-[(Trimethylsilyl) ethynyl] aniline (4-TEAE) and OTA-aptamer on Au NPs as SERS probes.
• Utilized Fe3O4 NPs with complementary aptamers (cApts) as capture probes.
• Employed a Raman reporter at 1998 cm-1 in a silent spectral region to avoid bio-molecule interference.

Main Results:

• The aptasensor demonstrated a linear response for OTA detection from 0.1-40 nM.
• Achieved a low limit of detection of 30 pM for OTA.
• Successfully quantified OTA in real food samples like soybean, grape, and milk.

Conclusions:

• The developed aptasensor provides specific, sensitive, and precise OTA detection in complex food samples.
• This strategy offers a reliable method for small-molecule detection in food analysis.
• The anti-interference capability enhances SERS applicability in food safety.