Quantum fluorescent gold nanoclusters for PCR-free ultrasensitive DNA detection

Publication date: 10 Mag 2025

JournalSource: OPENALEXOpenAlex type: articleOpen Access
Authors: Regina Maria Chiechio, Antonino Scandurra, R. Reitano, Paolo Musumeci, Maria Grazia Grimaldi, Annalinda Contino, Giuseppe Maccarrone, Valérie Marchi, Ludovica Maugeri, Salvatore Petralia, Francesco Ruffino

Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have emerged as promising tools for biomedical and environmental applications due to their photoluminescence, biocompatibility, and molecule-like electronic structure. This study presents a novel AuNC-based sensor platform, characterized by eco-friendly synthesis, label-free functionality, and ultrasensitivity for biomolecular detection. AuNCs were synthesized using a green chemistry approach without toxic solvents, yielding strong optical properties with an absorbance peak at 400 nm and emission at 600 nm. Functionalization with thiolated single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) enabled fluorescence-based detection of specific DNA sequences with a limit of detection in the attomolar range. The sensor demonstrated high specificity, distinguishing target DNA from non-specific sequences in both buffer solutions and complex biological matrices, including blood. The modular design allows adaptation to detect various biomolecules by incorporating specific aptamers. This versatile, cost-effective platform combines eco-friendly synthesis, high sensitivity, and specificity, offering significant potential for advanced diagnostics and environmental monitoring in real-world settings.

Origin
Applied Surface Science Advances
Volume
27
Pages
100762
Cited by
4