An aptasensor-based fluorescent signal amplification strategy for highly sensitive detection of mycotoxins

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biotechnology
• Food Science

Background:

• Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a highly toxic mycotoxin posing significant health risks.
• Accurate detection of AFB1 is crucial for ensuring food safety and public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive and quantitative aptasensor for AFB1 detection.
• To establish a fluorescent signal amplification strategy for enhanced detection.
• To explore the aptasensor's versatility for detecting other mycotoxins.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing graphene oxide (GO) and FAM-labeled AFB1 aptamers for fluorescence quenching.
• Employing deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) for aptamer hydrolysis and signal restoration.
• Investigating energy transfer mechanisms and optimizing sensing parameters.

Main Results:

• The aptasensor demonstrated effective disruption of energy transfer upon AFB1 binding.
• Signal amplification was achieved through aptamer hydrolysis and subsequent AFB1-aptamer interaction.
• The system successfully quantified AFB1 and showed potential for detecting ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisin B1 (FB1).

Conclusions:

• The developed aptasensor offers a novel and sensitive approach for AFB1 detection.
• The strategy provides a versatile platform for monitoring various food contaminants.
• This work contributes to advancements in aptasensor development for food safety analysis.