Dual-centered MOF-on-MOF sensor assisted by molecularly imprinted polymer for rapid and sensitive detection of...

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is a potent carcinogen and a major environmental and public health threat owing to its persistence and toxicity. In this study, we developed a ratiometric fluorescence probe with excellent responsiveness and specificity for AFB₁ detection based on a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-assisted Al-MOF@Eu-MOF system. This system leverages a dual-selectivity recognition mechanism, where the MIP layer provides molecular-level recognition and anti-interference capability, and the Al-MOFs contribute structural adaptability through their breathing effect. The dual-emission Al-MOF@Eu-MOF composite acts as both a support and signal tag, enabling a rapid fluorescence response and reverse fluorescence signals through the synergistic effects of photoinduced electron transfer (PET), breathing effects, and the inner filter effect (IFE). Benefiting from this dual-centered strategy, the sensor shows a broad linear detection range (0.008-25 μM) and achieves a detection limit (LOD) of 6.33 nM. The sensor successfully detects AFB₁ in the animal feed samples and provides reliable results. This platform is low-cost, highly portable, and easy to implement, and holds great promise for quick on-site AFB₁ detection for use in environmental assessments and food safety control.