A novel separated OPECT aptasensor based on MOF-derived BiVO₄/Bi₂S₃ type-II heterojunction for rapid detection of bacterial quorum sensing signal molecules

Quorum sensing signal molecules released by microorganisms serve as critical biomarkers regulating the attachment and aggregation of marine microbes on engineered surfaces. Hence, the development of efficient and convenient methods for detecting quorum sensing signal molecules is crucial for monitoring and controlling the formation and development of marine biofouling. Advanced optoelectronic technologies offer increased opportunities and methods for detecting quorum sensing signal molecules, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of detection. This study proposes a CAU-17-derived BiVO₄/Bi₂S₃ gated organic photoelectrochemical transistor (OPECT), and applies it to the detection of a typical quorum sensing signal molecule, N-(3-oxodecanoyl)-l-homoserine lactone (3-O-C10-HL). A strategy of signal amplification and separate detection process was employed. Specifically, BiVO₄/Bi₂S₃ type-II heterojunction photoanode was fabricated and successfully utilized for effective gating of the poly (ethylene dioxythiophene): poly (styrene sulfonate) channel. Using the previously screened 3-O-C10-HL adaptor, rapid and sensitive recognition of 3-O-C10-HL was achieved by effectively enhancing the response of the photoanode and regulating the overall performance of the device. The designed device demonstrated excellent specificity and sensitivity with a detection limit of 2.85 pM. This work not only provides an effective OPECT biosensing approach for detecting 3-O-C10-HL, but also reveals the application potential of semiconductor MOFs-derived materials in future optoelectronics.