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Functional Evolution of Gold Nanoclusters under Light-Induction: From Fluorescence to Multi-Enzyme Mimetic Transition
Jing Yang1, Ruishu Xu1, Haiyan Li1
1Key Laboratory of Theoretical Organic Chemistry and Function Molecule, Ministry of Education, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Controllable Preparation and Functional Application of Fine Polymers, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, China.
Ultraviolet light transforms gold nanoclusters, losing fluorescence but gaining enzyme-like abilities. This enables sensitive glucose detection and pollutant degradation, showcasing adaptive nanomaterials for biosensing and environmental solutions.
Area of Science:
- Nanomaterials Science
- Photochemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) possess unique properties, but their response to external stimuli is not fully understood.
- Understanding functional transitions in nanomaterials is crucial for developing advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structural and functional changes in AuNCs upon ultraviolet (UV) irradiation.
- To explore the potential of UV-triggered AuNCs in biosensing and environmental remediation.
Main Methods:
- Irradiation of AuNCs with UV light to induce structural evolution.
- Characterization of changes in AuNC properties, including fluorescence and catalytic activity.
- Application of modified AuNCs for glucose detection and phenolic pollutant analysis.
Main Results:
- UV irradiation caused AuNCs to enlarge and restructure, leading to fluorescence quenching.
- The structural changes activated dual enzyme-mimetic activities: peroxidase-like (POD-like) and laccase-like.
- AuNCs demonstrated sensitive glucose detection in human serum using POD-like activity.
- Simultaneous detection and degradation of phenolic pollutants in wastewater were achieved using laccase-like activity.
Conclusions:
- UV light dynamically regulates AuNC functionality, bridging fluorescence and catalytic properties.
- This photo-regulation strategy offers a novel approach for designing multifunctional, adaptive nanomaterials.
- The findings support the development of programmable nanosystems for biosensing and environmental remediation.
