High-sensitivity electrochemical aptasensor based on AuNPs/NH₂-UIO-66/PEI/MCNs nanocomposite for endotoxin detection

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Endotoxins, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), are potent inflammatory triggers from Gram-negative bacteria.
• Accurate detection of trace endotoxins is critical for food safety due to their inflammatory potential.
• Existing detection methods often lack the sensitivity or specificity required for complex food matrices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensing platform for detecting trace levels of endotoxins in food.
• To create a robust biosensor with enhanced anti-interference capabilities for complex food samples.
• To provide a portable solution for rapid screening of microbial contamination in food.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a functionalized nanocomposite material using AuNPs/NH2-UiO-66/PEI/MCNs on an electrochemical sensing platform.
• Utilizing polyethyleneimine-modified mesoporous carbon nanospheres (PEI/MCNs) as a substrate.
• Integrating NH2-UIO-66 for directional loading and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for conductivity enhancement.

Main Results:

• Achieved a remarkable detection limit of 40 fg/mL for lipopolysaccharides (LPS).
• Demonstrated excellent selectivity against common foodborne interferents.
• The sensor exhibited enhanced signal stability and anti-interference capabilities in complex food matrices.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical biosensor enables efficient and accurate trace-level detection of endotoxins in food.
• The novel nanocomposite interface strategy offers a promising approach for developing hazard detection technologies in complex matrices.
• This portable solution facilitates rapid screening of microbial contamination, enhancing food safety.