Cyclodextrin-Assisted l-Cysteine-Capped Copper Nanoclusters: Rapid Synthesis, Enhanced Photoluminescence, and Small...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Diagnostics
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Rapid synthesis of stable copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs) is challenging.
• Existing methods often lack efficiency and stability.
• Need for sensitive diagnostic tools for heme-related disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid and stable synthesis method for Cu NCs.
• To utilize Cu NCs for ultrasensitive detection of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX).
• To explore the potential of Cu NCs in diagnosing heme disorders and monitoring oxidative stress.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of cysteine-capped copper nanoclusters (Cys-Cu NCs) in 30 minutes.
• Incorporation of γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD) to enhance stability and photoluminescence via aggregation-induced emission (AIE).
• Detection of PPIX through selective fluorescence quenching and Stern-Volmer analysis.

Main Results:

• Achieved rapid synthesis of stable Cys-Cu NCs.
• γ-CD enhanced photoluminescence quantum yield from 0.15 to 0.24.
• Ultrasensitive detection of PPIX with a limit of 70 pM.
• Demonstrated high recovery in biological matrices (serum, urine).
• Exhibited sensitivity to reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Conclusions:

• γ-CD-assisted Cys-Cu NCs offer a stable and efficient platform for PPIX detection.
• The developed method is suitable for diagnosing porphyrias and other heme-related disorders.
• γ-CD-Cys-Cu NCs show promise as a versatile tool for clinical diagnostics and oxidative stress monitoring.