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Sensitive detection of 17β-estradiol at a picomolar level using an aptamer-assisted liquid crystal-based optical
Jun-Seong Ahn1, Chang-Hyun Jang2
1Department of Chemistry, Gachon University, Seongnam-daero 1342, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13120, Republic of Korea.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|August 15, 2023
Summary
A novel liquid crystal aptasensor detects 17β-estradiol (E2) at picomolar levels. This biosensor utilizes aptamer-CTAB interactions at the aqueous/LC interface for sensitive and selective E2 quantification.
Area of Science:
- Biosensing
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- 17β-estradiol (E2) is a crucial endocrine-disrupting chemical.
- Accurate detection of E2 is vital for environmental monitoring and clinical diagnostics.
- Existing detection methods often require complex instrumentation and sample preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly sensitive and selective aptasensor for E2 detection.
- To utilize liquid crystals (LCs) for optical signal transduction.
- To establish a cost-effective and user-friendly E2 detection platform.
Main Methods:
- Development of a liquid crystal (LC)-based aptasensor.
- Utilizing competitive interactions between aptamer, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), and E2 at the aqueous/LC interface.
- Monitoring changes in LC optical response (dark-to-bright transition) correlated with E2 concentration.
Main Results:
- The aptasensor achieved picomolar-level detection of E2 (3.1 pM in TBS, 6.8 pM in human urine).
- The sensor demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity, distinguishing E2 from other molecules.
- Optical signal changes were directly correlated with E2 concentration, enabling quantitative analysis.
Conclusions:
- The developed LC-based aptasensor offers a sensitive, selective, and equipment-free method for E2 detection.
- This technology holds promise for rapid point-of-care diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
- The aptasensor's design provides a versatile platform for detecting other small molecules.
