A ThT Derivative as Zn²⁺ Sensor Based on DNA G-quadruplex.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Zinc ions (Zn2+) play crucial roles in biological processes.
• Accurate detection of Zn2+ is essential for various applications.
• Existing detection methods may lack simplicity or sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, label-free sensing strategy for Zn2+ detection.
• To utilize the interaction between ThT-E and DNA G-quadruplex for sensing.
• To establish a sensitive and efficient method for quantifying Zn2+.

Main Methods:

• Development of a sensing system using Thioflavin T derivative (ThT-E) and DNA G-quadruplex.
• Exploitation of fluorescence enhancement and quenching mechanisms.
• Investigation of the interaction between ThT-E, DNA G-quadruplex, and Zn2+.

Main Results:

• The sensing strategy demonstrated label-free detection of Zn2+.
• Fluorescence quenching of ThT-E was observed upon Zn2+ addition, indicating G-quadruplex formation.
• A low detection limit of 0.6996 μM and a linear response in the 0-10 μM range were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The developed ThT-E and DNA G-quadruplex based strategy provides a simple, economical, and efficient method for Zn2+ detection.
• This approach offers a rapid response time and requires minimal operational steps.
• The label-free nature and high sensitivity make it suitable for various analytical applications.