Universal Method Based on Layer-by-Layer Assembly for Aptamer-Based Sensors for Small-Molecule Detection

Development of a fast and accurate pesticide analysis system is a challenging task, as a large amount of commonly used pesticide has negative effects on humans' health. Detection of pesticide residues is crucial for food safety management and environmental protection. Aptamers─short single-stranded oligonucleotides (RNA or DNA) selected by aptamer selection method SELEX─can selectively bind to their target pesticide molecules with high affinity. Thus, in the present study, we developed an electrochemical biosensor based on aptamers to detect the commonly used pesticide, glyphosate. Carbon fibers were used as the platform to assemble polyelectrolyte layers with the incorporated aptamers selectively binding with glyphosate molecules for electrochemical detection. The best limit of detection of 0.3 μM was achieved at open-circuit potential measurements, which is comparable to the current need in detection of glyphosate. The developed method can be implemented into existing systems for the determination of pesticides on farms to control residual concentrations of glyphosate in soil and water.