Signal Amplification Strategy-Assisted Dual Photoelectrode Fuel Cell Self-Powered Sensor for MecA Gene Detection

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The mecA gene confers antibiotic resistance in bacteria, posing significant risks to water safety and public health.
• Low concentrations and complex environmental matrices challenge sensitive detection of the mecA gene in water.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly sensitive photocatalytic fuel cell (PFC)-based self-powered electrochemical sensor (SPES) for detecting the mecA gene.
• To enhance detection sensitivity and accuracy for environmental monitoring applications.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a dual photoelectrode structure integrating a Bi₂S₃/Ti₃C₂T_x@Au heterojunction and a CuFeO₂ photocathode for improved photoelectric conversion.
• Implemented a magnetic nanobead (MB)-assisted 3D DNA walker strategy for signal amplification and target isolation.
• Utilized the PFC-SPES for sensitive detection of the mecA gene in water samples.

Main Results:

• The Bi₂S₃/Ti₃C₂T_x@Au heterojunction significantly improved photocurrent.
• The CuFeO₂ photocathode enhanced light absorption and increased the output signal by approximately 1.4 times.
• The developed sensor achieved a wide detection range (10 fM to 10 nM) with a low detection limit of 1.14 fM.

Conclusions:

• The PFC-SPES demonstrates high sensitivity and accuracy for mecA gene detection.
• This sensor provides a universal and rapid analytical choice for monitoring water pollutants.
• The study offers a promising approach for safeguarding ecological safety and public health against antibiotic resistance.