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Highly efficient photoelectrochemical aptasensor based on CdS/CdTe QDs co-sensitized TiO2 nanoparticles designed for
Xuejiao Xu1, Yan Lu1, Dandan Liu1
1Key Laboratory of Optic-Electric Sensing and Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, MOE, State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, People's Republic of China.
A novel photoelectrochemical (PEC) aptasensor was developed for sensitive thrombin detection. This sensor utilizes a unique TiO2 nanoparticle and quantum dot structure, achieving high photocurrent and a low detection limit.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Thrombin (TB) is a critical biomarker in various physiological and pathological processes.
- Sensitive and accurate detection of thrombin is essential for early disease diagnosis.
- Existing detection methods often face limitations in sensitivity, speed, or cost.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly sensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) aptasensor for thrombin detection.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of co-sensitized TiO2 nanoparticles and CdS/CdTe quantum dots (QDs) as photoactive materials.
- To evaluate the sensor's performance in terms of detection limit, linear range, stability, and reproducibility.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a PEC sensor using mesoporous TiO2 films.
- Growth of co-sensitized CdS/CdTe QDs on TiO2 via successive ion-layer adsorption and reaction.
- Utilizing the aptasensor platform for quantitative detection of thrombin.
- Characterization of the photoactive material and PEC performance.
Main Results:
- Successful synthesis of a co-sensitive structure with CdS/CdTe QDs on TiO2 nanoparticles.
- Enhanced photocurrent response due to improved light energy utilization and exciton dissociation.
- Achieved a low detection limit of 0.033 pM for thrombin.
- Demonstrated a wide linear detection range from 0.0001 to 100 nM.
- Exhibited good stability and reproducibility in diluted human serum samples.
Conclusions:
- The developed PEC aptasensor offers a novel and effective platform for sensitive thrombin quantification.
- The co-sensitized TiO2/CdS/CdTe QD structure significantly boosts PEC performance.
- This approach provides a promising strategy for developing advanced biosensors for clinical diagnostics.
