A novel ratiometric fluorescent sensor array based on the copper clusters hydrogels coupling of DNA

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• DNA-based hydrogels offer tunable properties for sensor applications.
• Existing DNA cross-linking methods face challenges with stability and cost.
• Developing robust and affordable sensors for metal ion detection remains crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel ratiometric fluorescence sensor array for discriminating and quantifying metal ions.
• To overcome the limitations of instability and high cost associated with traditional DNA cross-linking methods.
• To demonstrate the sensor array's capability in analyzing complex samples.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized dual-emission DNA-based hydrogels using agarose, non-specific double-stranded DNA, and copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE).
• Utilized the precise regulation of the hydrogel network by different metal ions to induce distinct fluorescence responses.
• Employed a ratiometric fluorescence approach for enhanced sensitivity and accuracy.

Main Results:

• The developed hydrogel sensor array successfully discriminated four metal ions (Pb2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cr(VI)) at various concentrations.
• The sensor array demonstrated good linearity, reproducibility, and high sensitivity in quantitative analysis.
• The system effectively analyzed metal ion mixtures and was validated in environmental and serum samples.

Conclusions:

• A novel, cost-effective, and stable ratiometric fluorescence sensor array based on DNA-hydrogels has been successfully developed.
• This sensor array provides a sensitive and reliable platform for the high-throughput discrimination of toxic metal ions.
• The findings present a significant advancement for environmental monitoring and biological sample analysis.