Turn-On Fluorescent Probe for BSA Detection Constructed by Supramolecular Assembly

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Fluorescent probes are crucial for sensitive biomolecule detection.
• Bovine serum albumin (BSA) is a key biomarker in various biological and clinical applications.
• Developing robust and selective probes for BSA remains an active research area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent probe for the sensitive and selective detection of bovine serum albumin (BSA).
• To investigate the detection mechanism and performance characteristics of the developed probe.
• To demonstrate the probe's applicability in complex biological samples and cellular imaging.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of the amphiphilic organic fluorescent molecule 2-(2 ahydroxyphenyl) benzothiazole (HBT-11).
• Assembly of HBT-11 with BSA in aqueous solution and fluorescence emission analysis at 501 nm.
• Evaluation of the probe's limit of detection (LOD), photostability, selectivity, and anti-interference capabilities.
• Application of the probe for BSA detection in fetal bovine serum and imaging in HeLa cells.

Main Results:

• HBT-11 exhibited weak fluorescence in aqueous solution, which was significantly enhanced upon binding with BSA.
• The probe demonstrated a low LOD of 3.92 nmol L^-1.
• HBT-11 showed excellent photostability, high selectivity, and robust anti-interference properties.
• Successful detection of BSA in fetal bovine serum and selective imaging of BSA in HeLa cells were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The HBT-11 based fluorescent probe provides a sensitive, selective, and robust method for BSA detection.
• Electrostatic interactions drive the assembly between HBT-11 and BSA.
• The probe is suitable for analyzing BSA in complex biological matrices and for cellular imaging applications.