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Upconversion Nanoparticle-Based Luminescence DNA Sensor on Porous Silicon Substrate
Yangzhi Zhang1,2, Xingyu Wang1, Yajun Liu3
1School of Physical Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China.
Biosensors
|February 26, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel biosensor using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) on porous silicon (PSi) for sensitive DNA detection. The UCNPs-PSi biosensor offers a low-cost, rapid, and convenient method for determining target DNA concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Rare-earth-doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are valuable tools in biosensing due to their unique luminescence properties.
- Existing biosensing methods often face limitations in sensitivity, cost, or speed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel biosensor for detecting target DNA molecule concentration.
- To integrate upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) with a porous silicon (PSi) substrate for enhanced biosensing capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a porous silicon (PSi) substrate via electrochemical etching.
- Functionalization of the PSi substrate for DNA immobilization.
- Hybridization of target DNA with UCNPs-labeled probe DNA.
- Detection using upconversion luminescence imaging and image processing.
Main Results:
- Successful development of a UCNPs-based biosensor on a PSi substrate.
- Demonstrated indirect attachment of UCNPs via DNA hybridization.
- Achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 86 pM for target DNA.
- Validated the method for low-cost, sensitive, rapid, and convenient DNA detection.
Conclusions:
- The developed UCNPs-PSi biosensor represents a significant advancement in DNA detection technology.
- This approach offers a promising platform for sensitive and efficient molecular diagnostics.
- The biosensor system is suitable for various biological detection applications requiring high sensitivity and speed.
