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Gold nanoparticles-anchored peptides enable precise colorimetric estimation of microplastics
Jindi Zhao1, Yongqiang Ruan1, Zhe Zheng1
1School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210046, China.
Iscience
|May 30, 2023
Summary
A new colorimetric method uses gold nanoparticles-anchored peptides to detect microplastics (MPs). This technique offers a precise, cost-effective way to identify MPs in aquatic environments, aiding pollution control.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) are pervasive aquatic contaminants demanding effective detection methods.
- Existing detection techniques for microplastics can be complex and costly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a facile and cost-effective colorimetric method for microplastic detection.
- To utilize gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-anchored peptides for specific microplastic recognition.
Main Methods:
- Peptides (LCI or TA2) were anchored to gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
- These AuNPs-peptides were designed to specifically bind to polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) microplastics.
- Color changes and shifts in surface plasmon absorption were observed upon MP-AuNP-peptide interaction.
Main Results:
- The method demonstrated high selectivity, stability, and reproducibility for microplastic detection.
- A color shift from red to gray-blue indicated the presence of microplastics.
- The detection range for microplastics was established as 2.5-15 μg/mL.
Conclusions:
- The developed colorimetric method provides a precise, facile, and cost-effective approach for estimating microplastics.
- This technique is valuable for monitoring microplastic pollution in various matrices.
- Effective microplastic detection aids in mitigating their hazardous impact on ecosystems and health.
