Ultrasensitive and dual functional colorimetric sensors for mercury (II) ions and hydrogen peroxide based on catalytic reduction property of silver nanoparticles

Recent advances and trends in innovative biosensor-based devices for heavy metal ion detection in food

Low-cost, reliable, and efficient biosensors are crucial in detecting residual heavy metal ions (HMIs) in food products. At present, based on distance-induced localized surface plasmon resonance of noble metal nanoparticles, enzyme-mimetic reaction of nanozymes, and chelation reaction of metal chelators, the constructed optical sensors have attracted wide attention in HMIs detection. Besides, based on the enrichment and signal amplification strategy of nanomaterials on HMIs and the construction of electrochemical aptamer sensing platforms, the developed electrochemical biosensors have overcome the plague of low sensitivity, poor selectivity, and the inability of multiplexed detection in the optical strategy. Moreover, along with an in-depth discussion of these different types of biosensors, a detailed overview of the design and application of innovative devices based on these sensing principles was provided, including microfluidic systems, hydrogel-based platforms, and test strip technologies. Finally, the challenges that hinder commercial application have also been mentioned. Overall, this review aims to establish a theoretical foundation for developing accurate and reliable sensing technologies and devices for HMIs, thereby promoting the widespread application of biosensors in the detection of HMIs in food.

On-Off-On Fluorometric Detection of Hg(II) and L-Cysteine Using Red Emissive Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots for Environmental and Clinical Sample Analysis

This research introduces a novel fluorescence sensor 'on-off-on' employing nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) with an 'on-off-on' mechanism for the selective and sensitive detection of Hg(II) and L-cysteine (L-Cys). N-CDs was synthesized using citric acid as the carbon precursor and urea as the nitrogen source in dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent, resulting in red emissive characteristics under UV light. Comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, including UV-Vis, fluorescence, FT-IR, XRD, XPS, Raman, and Zeta potential techniques, validated the structural and optical characteristics of the synthesized N-CDs. The maximum excitation and emission of N-CDs were observed at 548 and 622 nm, respectively. The quantum yield of N-CDs was calculated to be 16.1%. The fluorescence of N-CDs effectively quenches upon the addition of Hg(II) due to the strong coordination between Hg(II) and the surface functionalities of N-CDs. Conversely, upon the subsequent addition of L-Cys, the fluorescence of N-CDs was restored. This restoration can be attributed to the stronger affinity of the -SH group in L-Cys towards Hg(II) relative to the surface functionalities of N-CDs. This dual-mode response enabled the detection of Hg(II) and L-Cys with impressive detection limits of 15.1 nM and 8.0 nM, respectively. This sensor methodology effectively detects Hg(II) in lake water samples and L-Cys levels in human urine, with a recovery range between 99 and 101%. Furthermore, the N-CDs demonstrated excellent stability, high sensitivity, and selectivity, making them a promising fluorescence on-off-on probe for both environmental monitoring of Hg(II) and clinical diagnostics of L-Cys.

Nanozymes: A comprehensive review on emerging applications in cancer diagnosis and therapeutics

Nanozymes, a new class of nanomaterials-based artificial enzymes, have gained huge attraction due to their high operational stability, working efficiency in extreme conditions, and resistance towards protease digestion. Nowadays, they are effectively substituted for natural enzymes for catalysis by closely resembling the active sites found in natural enzymes. Nanozymes can compensate for natural enzymes' drawbacks, such as high cost, poor stability, low yield, and storage challenges. Due to their transforming nature, nanozymes are of utmost importance in the detection and treatment of cancer. They enable precise cancer detection, tailored drug delivery, and catalytic therapy. Through enhanced diagnosis, personalized therapies, and reduced side effects, their adaptability and biocompatibility can transform the management of cancer. The review focuses on metal and metal oxide-based nanozymes, highlighting their catalytic processes, and their applications in the prevention and treatment of cancer. It emphasizes their potential to alter diagnosis and therapy, particularly when it comes to controlling reactive oxygen species (ROS). The article reveals the game-changing importance of nanozymes in the future of cancer care and describes future research objectives, making it a useful resource for researchers, and scientists. Lastly, outlooks for future perspective areas in this rapidly emerging field have been provided in detail.

Highly sensitive lateral flow immunoassays based on Ag@Au nanoflowers with marine medaka (Oryzias melastigm) vitellogenin as a target analyte

In order to improve the sensitivity of lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs) for the detection of piscine vitellogenin (Vtg), a well-established biomarker for environmental estrogens, Au coated Ag nanoflowers (Ag@Au NFs) were used as labeling probes to develop a LFIA for marine medaka Vtg. The synthesized Ag@Au NFs with good monodispersity had an average diameter of 44.1 nm and absorbance peak of 524 nm. When the concentration of goat anti-mouse IgG and anti-Vtg polyclonal antibody (anti-Vtg PAbs) were 1.3 and 0.4 mg/mL, respectively, the detection range of the LFIA was 0.19-25 ng/mL, and the visual detection limit was 0.1 ng/mL, which was approximately 80 times lower than that of LFIAs based on other nanoparticles (Au NPs, Ag NPs, Au NFs, and FM). After evaluation of its specificity and robustness, the usefulness of Ag@Au NFs labeled LFIA was validated by measuring Vtg induction in the plasma of marine medaka exposed to bisphenol A, a weak estrogenic chemical. This highly sensitive lateral flow immunoassay could detect Vtg biomarker within 15 min without the need of expensive and complicated instruments, and thus offered an ultrasensitive and robust on-site detection method for estrogenic activity in field environment.

Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles/Mg-Al Layered Double Hydroxides with Peroxidase-like Activity for Mercury Detection and Antibacterial Activity

Over the past decade, the attention of researchers has been drawn to materials with enzyme-like properties to substitute natural enzymes. The ability of nanomaterials to mimic enzymes makes them excellent enzyme mimics; nevertheless, there is a wide berth for improving their activity and providing a platform to heighten their potential. Herein, we report a green and facile route for Tectona grandis leaves extract-assisted synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) decorated on Mg-Al layered double hydroxides (Mg-Al-OH@TGLE-AgNPs) as a nanocatalyst. The Mg-Al-OH@TGLE-AgNPs nanocatalyst was well characterized, and the average crystallite size of the Ag NPs was found to be 7.92 nm. The peroxidase-like activity in the oxidation of o-phenylenediamine in the presence of H2O2 was found to be an intrinsic property of the Mg-Al-OH@TGLE-AgNPs nanocatalyst. In addition, the use of the Mg-Al-OH@TGLE-AgNPs nanocatalyst was extended towards the quantification of Hg2+ ions which showed a wide linearity in the concentration range of 80-400 μM with a limit of detection of 0.2 nM. Additionally, the synergistic medicinal property of Ag NPs and the phytochemicals present in the Tectona grandis leaves extract demonstrated notable antibacterial activity for the Mg-Al-OH@TGLE-AgNPs nanocatalyst against Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Bacillus cereus.

A novel method of rapid detection for heavy metal copper ion via a specific copper chelator bathocuproinedisulfonic acid disodium salt

The extensive usage and production of copper may lead to toxic effects in organisms due to its accumulation in the environment. Traditional methods for copper detection are time consuming and infeasible for field usage. It is necessary to discover a real-time, rapid and economical method for detecting copper to ensure human health and environmental safety. Here we developed a colorimetric paper strip method and optimized spectrum method for rapid detection of copper ion based on the specific copper chelator bathocuproinedisulfonic acid disodium salt (BCS). Both biological assays and chemical methods verified the specificity of BCS for copper. The optimized reaction conditions were 50 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.4, 200 µM BCS, 1 mM ascorbate and less than 50 µM copper. The detection limit of the copper paper strip test was 0.5 mg/L by direct visual observation and the detection time was less than 1 min. The detection results of grape, peach, apple, spinach and cabbage by the optimized spectrum method were 0.91 μg/g, 0.87 μg/g, 0.19 μg/g, 1.37 μg/g and 0.39 μg/g, respectively. The paper strip assays showed that the copper contents of grape, peach, apple, spinach and cabbage were 0.8 mg/L, 0.9 mg/L, 0.2 mg/L, 1.3 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively. These results correlated well with those determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The visual detection limit of the paper strip based on Cu-BCS-AgNPs was 0.06 mg/L. Our study demonstrates the potential for on-site, rapid and cost-effective copper monitoring of foods and the environment.

A green and fast microwave-assisted synthesis of selenium nanoparticles and their characterization under gastrointestinal conditions using mass spectrometry

We present a novel microwave-assisted green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using yeast extract as source of a non-toxic reducing and capping agents. Effects of synthesis and gastrointestinal digestion conditions on the biogenic Se particle size distribution and number concentration using SP ICP MS were evaluated. The median equivalent diameter of SeNPs varied depending on the synthesis conditions. Upon incubation in simulated gastric juice, the increase of SeNPs size was observed, whereas after simulated intestinal juice addition, their size came back close to the initial value. The biomolecules contained in yeast extract, which play predominant role in the synthesis of SeNPs, were identified by non-targeted qualitative analysis using LC Orbitrap ESI MS. The use of the state-of-the-art MS techniques allowed both the comprehensive assessment of the processes leading to the SeNPs formation and the evaluation of their behavior under gastrointestinal conditions which is of utmost importance for their use as a novel selenium source.

Utilization of the peroxidase-like activity of silver nanoparticles nanozyme on O-phenylenediamine/H2O2 system for fluorescence detection of mercury (II) ions

Polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized silver nanoparticles (PV-AgNPs) were synthesized from AgNO₃/trisodium citrate and with the assistance of microwave energy. The synthesized PV-AgNPs were found to own an actual peroxidase mimicking activity. This catalytic activity can oxidize the non-fluorescence reagent (o-phenylenediamine) to a high fluorescence reaction product (2,3-diaminophenazine). The reaction product exhibited a fluorescence emission at 563 nm upon the excitation at 420. Among many metals, only mercury (II) ions can inhibit the catalytic activity of PV-AgNPs nanozyme. Accordingly, the fluorescence intensity of the reaction product has been successfully quenched. This quenching effect in the fluorescence intensity was directly proportional to the concentration of mercury (II). Depending on this finding, a simple, cost-effective, and selective spectrofluorimetric approach has been designed for mercury (II) detection in water samples. The linear relationship between the inhibition in fluorescence intensity and mercury (II) concentration was found in 20–2000 nM with a detection limit of 8.9 nM.

Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Multimode Colorimetric Sensing of Multiplex Metal Ions and Molecular Informatization Applications

Plasmonic materials have been widely used in chemo/biosensing and biomedicine. However, little attention has been paid to the application of plasmonic materials in terms of the transition from molecular sensing to molecular informatization. Herein, we demonstrated that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) prepared through facile and rapid microwave heating have multimode colorimetric sensing capabilities to different metal ions (Cr³⁺, Hg²⁺, and Ni²⁺), which can be further transformed into interesting and powerful molecular information technology (massively parallel molecular logic computing and molecular information protection). The prepared AgNPs can quantitatively and sensitively detect Cr³⁺ and Hg²⁺ in actual water samples. The AgNPs' multimode-guided multianalyte sensing processing was further investigated to construct a series of basic logic gates and advanced cascaded logic circuits by considering the analytes as the inputs and the colorimetric signals (like color, absorbance, wavelength shift) as the outputs. Moreover, the selective responses and molecular logic computing ability of AgNPs were also utilized to develop molecular cryptosteganography for encrypting and hiding some specific information, which proves that the molecular world and the information world are interconnected and use each other. This research not only opens the door for the transition from molecular sensing to molecular informatization but also provides an excellent opportunity for the construction of the "metaverse" of the molecular world.

Hg2+ Detection with Rational Design of DNA-Templated Fluorescent Silver Nanoclusters

Atomically precise silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) are small nanostructures consisting of only a few atoms of silver. The combination of AgNCs with cytosine-rich single-stranded oligonucleotides results in DNA-templated silver nanoclusters (DNA-AgNCs). DNA-AgNCs are highly luminescent and can be engineered with reproducible and unique fluorescent properties. Furthermore, using nucleic acids as templates for the synthesis of AgNCs provides additional practical benefits by expanding optical activity beyond the visible spectral range and creating the possibility for color tunability. In this study, we explore DNA oligonucleotides designed to fold into hairpin-loop (HL) structures which modulate optical properties of AgNCs based on the size of the loop containing different number of cytosines (HL-CN). Depending on the size of the loop, AgNCs can be manufactured to have either single or multiple emissive states. Such hairpin-loop structures provide an additional stability for AgNCs and further control over the base composition of the loop, allowing for the rational design of AgNCs’ optical properties. We demonstrate the potential of AgNCs in detecting Hg2+ by utilizing the HL-C13 design and its variants HL-T2C11, HL-T4C9, and HL-T6C7. The replacement of cytosines with thymines in the loop was intended to serve as an additional sink for mercury ions extending the detectable range of Hg2+. While AgNC@HL-T0C13 exhibits an interpretable quenching curve, AgNC@HL-T6C7 provides the largest detectable range of Hg2+. The results presented herein suggest that it is possible to use a rational design of DNA-AgNCs based on the composition of loop sequence in HL structures for creating biosensors to detect heavy metals, particularly Hg2+.

Nanozymes in Point-of-Care Diagnosis: An Emerging Futuristic Approach for Biosensing

Nanomaterial-based artificial enzymes (or nanozymes) have attracted great attention in the past few years owing to their capability not only to mimic functionality but also to overcome the inherent drawbacks of the natural enzymes. Numerous advantages of nanozymes such as diverse enzyme-mimicking activities, low cost, high stability, robustness, unique surface chemistry, and ease of surface tunability and biocompatibility have allowed their integration in a wide range of biosensing applications. Several metal, metal oxide, metal-organic framework-based nanozymes have been exploited for the development of biosensing systems, which present the potential for point-of-care analysis. To highlight recent progress in the field, in this review, more than 260 research articles are discussed systematically with suitable recent examples, elucidating the role of nanozymes to reinforce, miniaturize, and improve the performance of point-of-care diagnostics addressing the ASSURED (affordable, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, rapid and robust, equipment-free and deliverable to the end user) criteria formulated by World Health Organization. The review reveals that many biosensing strategies such as electrochemical, colorimetric, fluorescent, and immunological sensors required to achieve the ASSURED standards can be implemented by using enzyme-mimicking activities of nanomaterials as signal producing components. However, basic system functionality is still lacking. Since the enzyme-mimicking properties of the nanomaterials are dictated by their size, shape, composition, surface charge, surface chemistry as well as external parameters such as pH or temperature, these factors play a crucial role in the design and function of nanozyme-based point-of-care diagnostics. Therefore, it requires a deliberate exertion to integrate various parameters for truly ASSURED solutions to be realized. This review also discusses possible limitations and research gaps to provide readers a brief scenario of the emerging role of nanozymes in state-of-the-art POC diagnosis system development for futuristic biosensing applications.

A sensitive turn-off-on fluorometric sensor based on S,N co-doped carbon dots for environmental analysis of Hg(II) ion

A simple and sensitive fluorescence turn-off-on sensor was established by means of S,N co-doped carbon dots (S,N-CDs) and Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) for the determination of Hg²⁺ . For this purpose, blue emissive S,N-CDs were hydrothermally synthesized and characterized using transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. We observed that the fluorescence intensity of the as-prepared S,N-CDs was impressively quenched by AgNPs. The quenching mechanism was studied and attributed to nanosurface energy transfer and the inner filter effect between S,N-CDs and AgNPs. Furthermore, by adding Hg²⁺ , the fluorescence intensity of S,N-CDs/AgNPs was restored as a result of aggregation of AgNPs in the presence of Hg²⁺ . Based on these facts, S,N-CDs and AgNPs were exploited to design a sensitive turn-off-on sensor for analysis of Hg²⁺ . The recovered fluorescence signal was proportional to the concentration of Hg²⁺ in the range 1.5-2000 nM with a detection limit of 0.51 nM. The established sensor was used with satisfactory results for measurement of Hg²⁺ in environmental water samples.

Dual Colorimetric Sensor for Hg2+/Pb2+ and an Efficient Catalyst Based on Silver Nanoparticles Mediating by the Root Extract of Bistorta amplexicaulis

Environmental pollution derivated from toxic metals and organic toxins is becoming a serious issue worldwide because of their harmful effects on the ecosystem and human health. Here we are reporting an extremely selective and cost-effective colorimetric sensor for simultaneous recognition of Hg2+ and Pb2+ by using green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) mediated from the environmental friendly roots extract of Bistorta amplexicaulis. Biogenic synthesized AgNPs were well-characterized by various spectroscopic techniques e.g., UV-vis, FT-IR, XRD, AFM, and Zetasizer. The photophysical potential of synthesized AgNPs toward common metal cations was explored via absorption spectroscopy and colorimetric assay. The hypsochromic shift in the SPR band of AgNPs can easily be detected through naked eyes vision from dark brown to light yellow in the case of Hg2+. A substantial reduction in the absorbance of AgNPs was recorded upon mixing with Pb2+. AgNPs based colorimetric sensor is highly sensitive toward Hg2+ and Pb2+ with a limit of detection (LOD) of 8.0 × 10-7 M and 2.0 × 10-7 M for Hg2+ and Pb2+, respectively. Furthermore, AgNPs showed promising catalytic activity for the degradation of methyl orange dye. These results demonstrate that Bistorta amplexicaulis stabilized silver nanoparticles have potential applications as a colorimetric sensor and an effective catalyst for the degradation of methyl orange.

A career in photophysicochemical and electrochemical properties of phthalocyanine — a Linstead Career Award paper

This manuscript highlights the author’s contributions to phthalocyanine chemistry, especially the applications based on their electrochemistry and photophysicochemistry. In particular, the use of phthalocyanines as electrocatalysts and photocatalysts is presented. For photocatalysis, photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy and pollution control using green technologies are highlighted. For electrocatalysis the phthalocyanines are employed for the detection of pollutants and environmentally important molecules. Phthalocyanines are combined with nanomaterials for improved photocatalysis and electrocatalysis.

Plasmonic active film integrating gold/silver nanostructures for H2O2 readout

A nanostructured Ag/Au adhesive film for H₂O₂ reagentless determination is here proposed. The film has been realised onto ELISA polystyrene microplates. Microwells surface has been initially modified with a gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)/polydopamine thin-film. The pristine AuNPs-decorated film was later functionalized with catechin (Au-CT) allowing a uniform formation of a plasmonic active nanostructured silver network in presence of Ag⁺. Changes in localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the silver network upon addition of H₂O₂ has been used as analytical signal, taking advantage of the etching phenomenon. The Ag/Au nanocomposite-film is characterized by a well-defined (LSPR_max = 405 ± 5 nm), reproducible (intraplate RSD ≤ 9.8%, n = 96; inter-plate RSD ≤ 11.4%, n = 480) and stable LSPR signal. The film's analytical features have been tested for H₂O₂ and glucose (bio)sensing. Satisfactory analytical performances were obtained both for H₂O₂ (linear range 1-200 μM, R² = 0.9992, RSD ≤ 6.3%, LOD = 0.2 μM) and glucose (linear range 2-250 μM, R² = 0.9998, RSD ≤ 8.9%, LOD = 0.4 μM). As proof of applicability, the determination of the two analytes in soft drinks has been carried out achieving good and reproducible recoveries (84-111%; RSD ≤ 9%). The developed nanostructured film overcomes analytical drawbacks associated with the use of colloidal dispersions in plasmonic assays carried out in solution; the low cost, robustness, ease of use and possibility of coupling enzymatic reactions appears very promising for (bio)sensors based on the detection of H₂O₂.

Synthesis of Carbon Dots and their Application as Turn Off-On Fluorescent Sensor for Mercury (II) and Glutathione

In this paper, we present a new method for the detection of mercury (II) and glutathione using carbon dots as fluorescent sensor. The synthesized carbon dots have the advantages of simple manipulation, low cost and the high fluorescence quantum yield of them which was22.79%. The combination of mercury (II) and carbon dots caused the turn off of carbon dots fluorescence. With the reaction between mercury (II) and glutathione, the carbon dots were released and the fluorescence was turned on when the glutathione added. According to this, the carbon dots could be developed to detect mercury (II) and glutathione specifically, and the detection limit of mercury (II) is as low as 0.41 μM.

Colorimetric Detection of Mercury Ions in Water with Capped Silver Nanoprisms

The emission of mercury (II) from coal combustion and other industrial processes may have impacts on water resources, and the detection with sensitive but rapid testing methods is desirable for environmental screening. Towards this end, silver nanoprisms were chemically synthesized resulting in a blue reagent solution that transitioned towards red and yellow solutions when exposed to Hg²⁺ ions at concentrations from 0.5 to 100 µM. A galvanic reduction of Hg²⁺ onto the surfaces is apparently responsible for a change in nanoprism shape towards spherical nanoparticles, leading to the change in solution color. There were no interferences by other tested mono- and divalent metal cations in solution and pH had minimal influence in the range of 6.5 to 9.8. The silver nanoprism reagent provided a detection limit of approximately 1.5 µM (300 µg/L) for mercury (II), which compared reasonably well with other reported nanoparticle-based techniques. Further optimization may reduce this detection limit, but matrix effects in realistic water samples require further investigation and amelioration.

Synthesis of Calixarene-Capped Silver Nanoparticles for Colorimetric and Amperometric Detection of Mercury (HgII, Hg0)

Calixarene-functionalized water dispersible silver nanoparticles have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of UV-vis, IR, X-ray diffraction, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis, and their sensing properties toward metal ions have been investigated. They selectively detect Hg2+ and Hg0 in solution and vapor phases, respectively, with distinct color change. Interference study with mixture of metal ions revealed no interference from any other metal ions used in this study. Their mechanism of detection involved Hg2+-aided displacement of calixarene moiety from the surface of the functionalized nanoparticles, followed by the formation of Ag-Hg amalgam due to interaction of Hg2+ with Ag0 and also the formation of assembly of Ag0 nanoparticles by dipole-dipole interaction of the bare-surfaced nanoparticles. Electrochemical study revealed that with the aid of functionalized nanoparticles, Hg2+ can be detected amperometrically with high sensitivity. The detection limits obtained for Hg2+ by UV-vis study and amperometry are 0.5 nM (0.1 ppb) and 10 nM (2 ppb), respectively. The new material has been used to detect Hg2+ in aqueous real sample and Hg0 in soil sample.

Green silver-nanoparticle-based dual sensor for toxic Hg(II) ions

The present study focuses on the utilization of green silver nanoparticles, as they are preferred for sensing applications due to their environmentally friendly nature. We have examined the optical and electrochemical sensing behavior of silver nanoparticles from Agaricus bisporus (AgNP-AB) towards Hg(II) ions. The AgNP-AB was prepared by microwave reactor. The synthesized AgNP was used for the sensing of Hg(II) ions without the use of modifiers or further sophisticated instrumentation. The synthesized nanoparticles were successfully characterized by different techniques. AgNP-AB leads to aggregation with the addition of Hg(II) ions in aqueous medium, and develops a color change from brown to black which leads to the formation of AgNP-AB-Hg(II) complex. Moreover, the metal sensing ability of AgNP has been explored using electrochemical studies. AgNP-AB modified platinum electrode (AgNP-AB/PE) was developed for the fast sensing of toxic Hg(II) ions. The sensor exhibits a good limit of detection at 2.1 × 10^-6 M. The sensitivity of AgNP-AB/PE towards Hg(II) ions was analyzed with various metal ions. The sensing skill of the developed system was successfully checked with real water samples from Vembanade Lake, Kumarakom, Kerala. AgNP from A. bisporus is highly versatile and promising for different environmental applications.

Highly Sensitive and Selective Colorimetric Detection of Methylmercury Based on DNA Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles

A new colorimetric detection of methylmercury (CH₃Hg⁺) was developed, which was based on the surface deposition of Hg enhancing the catalytic activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The AuNPs were functionalized with a specific DNA strand (H_T7) recognizing CH₃Hg⁺, which was used to capture and separate CH₃Hg⁺ by centrifugation. It was found that the CH₃Hg⁺ reduction resulted in the deposition of Hg onto the surface of AuNPs. As a result, the catalytic activity of the AuNPs toward the chromogenic reaction of 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)-H₂O₂ was remarkably enhanced. Under optimal conditions, a limit of detection of 5.0 nM was obtained for CH₃Hg⁺ with a linear range of 10–200 nM. We demonstrated that the colorimetric method was fairly simple with a low cost and can be conveniently applied to CH₃Hg⁺ detection in environmental samples.

Colorimetric and visual detection of mercury(II) based on the suppression of the interaction of dithiothreitol with agar-stabilized silver-coated gold nanoparticles

A colorimetric and visual method is described for the determination of mercury(II) ion. A gel consisting of agar-stabilized silver-coated gold nanoparticles (Au@Ag NPs) was prepared. The reaction with dithiothreitol (DTT) via thiol-Ag chemistry results in an orange to purple color change of the gel. However, in the presence of Hg(II), the reaction of DTT with the silver shells is suppressed due to the strong thiophilicity of Hg(II). The color of the gel changes from purple to red to orange in the presence of increasing concentrations of Hg(II). The Au@Ag NPs therefore are a viable optical probe for Hg(II) which can be detected in concentration as low as 78 nM via dual-wavelength ratiometric absorbance (A₃₉₀/A₅₂₀), and at 1 μM levels with bare eyes. The use of agar as a support is mandatory to prevent the aggregation of the NPs and also improves selectivity. The method was applied to the analysis of spiked samples, and recoveries ranged between 96.3 and 104%. The assay is easy, inexpensive, and in our perception represents an attractive tool for on-site visual detection of Hg(II). Graphical abstract Schematic of the assay. With increasing concentrations of Hg(II), the oxidative etching of silver shells caused by dithiothreitol (DTT) is gradually inhibited, and the color of agar-stabilized Au@Ag NP gel varies from purple to red, and finally to orange. This can be used for visual detection of Hg(II).

Determination of mercury (II) ions based on silver-nanoparticles-assisted growth of gold nanostructures: UV-Vis and surface enhanced Raman scattering approaches

Innovative dual detection methods for mercury(II) ions (Hg^(II)) have been developed based on the formation of gold nanostructures (AuNSs) following the addition of mercury-containing solution to a mixture containing an optimized amount of Au^(III), H₂O₂, HCl, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). In the absence of Hg^(II), the addition of Au^(III), H₂O₂, and HCl to the AgNP solution changes the solution's color from yellow to red, and the absorption peak shifts from 400 to 526nm, indicating the dissolution of AgNPs and the formation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Because of the spontaneous redox reaction of Hg^(II) toward AgNPs, the change in the amount of remaining AgNP seed facilitates the generation of irregular AuNSs, resulting in changes in absorption intensity and shifting the peak within the range from 526 to 562nm depending on the concentration of Hg^(II). Under optimal conditions, the limit of detection (LOD) for Hg^(II) at a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of 3 was 0.3μM. We further observed that AgNP-assisted catalytic formation of Au nanomaterials deposited on a surface enhanced Raman scattering active substrate significantly reduced the Raman signal of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid, dependent on the Hg^(II) concentration. A linear relationship was observed in the range 0.1nM-100μM with a LOD of 0.05nM (S/N 3.0). As a simple, accurate and precise method, this SERS-based assay has demonstrated its success in determining levels of Hg^(II) in real water samples.

Influence of ligand chemistry on silver nanoparticles for colorimetric detection of Cr3+ and Hg2+ ions

In this work, we describe the role of ligand chemistry on the surfaces of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) for tuning their analytical applications. The citrate and melamine (MA) molecules were used as ligands for the surface modification of Ag NPs. The addition of Cr³⁺ ion in citrate-Ag NPs (Cit-Ag NPs) and of Hg²⁺ ion in melamine-Ag NPs (MA-Ag NPs) cause Ag NPs aggregation, and are accompanied by a color change and a red-shift. The resulting distinctly visual readouts are favorable for colorimetric detection of Cr³⁺ and Hg²⁺ ions. Under optimal conditions, the linear ranges are observed in the concentration ranges of 1.0-50.0 and of 10.0-100.0 μM, and with detection limit of 0.52 and 1.80 μM for Cr³⁺ and Hg²⁺ ions. The simultaneous detection of Cr³⁺ and Hg²⁺ ion is driven by the changing the ligand chemistry on the surfaces of Ag NPs that allows to tune their specific interactions with target analytes. Finally, the functionalized Ag NPs were successfully applied to detect Cr³⁺ and Hg²⁺ ions in water samples with satisfactory recoveries.

Hydrogen peroxide and glucose concentration measurement using optical fiber grating sensors with corrodible plasmonic nanocoatings

We propose and demonstrate hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and glucose concentration measurements using a plasmonic optical fiber sensor. The sensor utilizes a tilted fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) written in standard single mode communication fiber. The fiber is over coated with an nm-scale film of silver that supports surface plasmon resonances (SPRs). Such a tilted grating SPR structure provides a high density of narrow spectral resonances (Q-factor about 10⁵) that overlap with the broader absorption band of the surface plasmon waves in the silver film, thereby providing an accurate tool to measure small shifts of the plasmon resonance frequencies. The H₂O₂ to be detected acts as an oxidant to etch the silver film, which has the effect of gradually decreasing the SPR attenuation. The etching rate of the silver film shows a clear relationship with the H₂O₂ concentration so that monitoring the progressively increasing attenuation of a selected surface plasmon resonance over a few minutes enables us to measure the H₂O₂ concentration with a limit of detection of 0.2 μM. Furthermore, the proposed method can be applied to the determination of glucose in human serum for a concentration range from 0 to 12 mM (within the physiological range of 3-8 mM) by monitoring the H₂O₂ produced by an enzymatic oxidation process. The sensor does not require accurate temperature control because of the inherent temperature insensitivity of TFBG devices referenced to the core mode resonance. A gold mirror coated on the fiber allows the sensor to work in reflection, which will facilitate the integration of the sensor with a hypodermic needle for in vitro measurements. The present study shows that Ag-coated TFBG-SPR can be applied as a promising type of sensing probe for optical detection of H₂O₂ and glucose detection in human serum.

Low-temperature biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using mango leaf extract: catalytic effect, antioxidant properties, anticancer activity and application for colorimetric sensing

Aqueous mango leaf extract was used as a reducing and capping agent for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)viaa single-step, low cost and green process.

Thiamine-functionalized silver nanoparticles for the highly selective and sensitive colorimetric detection of Hg2+ ions

Hg²⁺ contamination is a serious threat to the environment; hence, the development of methods for its trace level detection is urgently required.

Turn-on Luminescent Probe for Hydrogen Peroxide Sensing and Imaging in Living Cells based on an Iridium(III) Complex-Silver Nanoparticle Platform

A sensitive turn-on luminescent sensor for H2O2 based on the silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-mediated quenching of an luminescent Ir(III) complex (Ir-1) has been designed. In the absence of H2O2, the luminescence intensity of Ir-1 can be quenched by AgNPs via non-radiative energy transfer. However, H2O2 can oxidize AgNPs to soluble Ag+ cations, which restores the luminescence of Ir-1. The sensing platform displayed a sensitive response to H2O2 in the range of 0-17 μM, with a detection limit of 0.3 μM. Importantly, the probe was successfully applied to monitor intracellular H2O2 in living cells, and it also showed high selectivity for H2O2 over other interfering substances.

2,3-Pyridine dicarboxylic acid functionalized gold nanoparticles: Insight into experimental conditions for Cr3+ sensing

Selectivity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) depends upon surface functionality; small changes in structure or concentration bring significant changes in the behavior of AuNPs. In this study, citrate-capped AuNPs were functionalized with ortho-dicarboxylate substituted pyridine (2,3-PDCA) and detailed studies on experimental conditions were carried out to check the stability of AuNPs and response for Cr³⁺. Stability of PDCA-AuNPs was found sensitive to the pH, ionic strength of buffer and its type. Capping behavior of PDCA on C-AuNPs was examined by FTIR spectroscopy. Surface morphology and size of synthesized AuNPs were confirmed by AFM, XRD, and DLS techniques where particles were found 11nm in size, monodisperse and spherical in shape. Interaction of stabilized AuNPs was tested with various metal ions; where Cr³⁺ induced the changes in localized surface plasmon band (LSPR) of PDCA-AuNPs which leads to a color change from wine red to violet blue. The phenomenon is explained as cooperative effect of citrate and pyridine nitrogen on surface of AuNPs in contrary to meta-dicarboxylate substituted pyridine derivatives. Further, under optimized and controlled conditions Cr³⁺ shows linear response with decrease in absorbance at LSPR intensity of AuNPs (518nm). Moreover, to demonstrate the applicability of method, Cr³⁺ was determined in the presence of Cr (VI) which shows 96% recovery.

Carbon quantum dots prepared with polyethyleneimine as both reducing agent and stabilizer for synthesis of Ag/CQDs composite for Hg2+ ions detection

A stable silver nanoparticles/carbon quantum dots (Ag/CQDs) composite was prepared by using CQDs as reducing and stabilizing agent. The CQDs synthesized with polyethyleneimine (PEI) showed an extraordinary reducibility. When Hg²⁺ was presented in the Ag/CQDs composite solution, a color change from yellow to colorless was observed, accompanied by a shift of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band and decrease in absorbance of the Ag/CQDs composite. On the basis of the further studies on TEM, XPS and XRD analysis, the possible mechanism is attributed to the formation of a silver-mercury amalgam. Hence, a two dimensional sensing platform for Hg²⁺ detection was constructed upon the Ag/CQDs composite. Based on the change of absorbance, a good linear relationship was obtained from 0.5 to 50μM for Hg²⁺. And the limit of detection for Hg²⁺ was as low as 85nM, representing high sensitivity to Hg²⁺. More importantly, the proposed method also exhibits a good selectivity toward Hg²⁺ over other metal ions. Besides, this strategy demonstrates practicability for the detection of Hg²⁺ in real water samples with satisfactory results.

Application of Starch-Stabilized Silver Nanoparticles as a Colorimetric Sensor for Mercury(II) in 0.005 mol/L Nitric Acid

A sensitive and selective Hg2+optical sensor has been developed based on the redox interaction of Hg2+with starch-coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the presence of 0.005 mol L−1HNO3. The relative intensity of the localized surface plasmon absorption band of AgNPs at 406 nm is linearly dependent on the concentration of Hg2+with positive slope for the concentration range 0–12.5 μg L−1and negative slope for the concentration range 25–500 μg L−1. Experiments performed demonstrated that metal ions (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Pb2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Fe3+, Co2+, and Ni2+) do not interfere under the same conditions, due to the absence of oxidative activity of these ions, which guarantees the high selectivity of the proposed optical sensor towards Hg2+. The limits of detection and quantification were found to be 0.9 µg L−1and 2.7 µg L−1, respectively, and relative standard deviations varied in the range 9–12% for Hg content from 0.9 to 12.5 μg L−1and 5–9% for Hg levels from 25 to 500 μg L−1. The method was validated by analysis of CRM Estuarine Water BCR505. A possible mechanism of interaction between AgNPs and Hg2+for both concentration ranges was proposed on the basis of UV-Vis, TEM, and SAED analyses.

A novel universal colorimetric sensor for simultaneous dual target detection through DNA-directed self-assembly of graphene oxide and magnetic separation

A novel universal colorimetric sensor for simultaneous dual target detection through DNA-directed self-assembly of graphene oxide and magnetic separation was designed for the first time.

Highly selective and quantitative colorimetric detection of mercury(II) ions by carrageenan-functionalized Ag/AgCl nanoparticles

The natural algal polysaccharide carrageenan was used for the greener synthesis of silver/silver chloride nanoparticles (Carr-Ag/AgCl NPs) without any toxic chemicals. We report the robust, highly selective, and sensitive colorimetric sensing of Hg²⁺ ions using Carr-Ag/AgCl NPs without any further surface modification. The dark-brown color of a solution of Carr-Ag/AgCl NPs turned to white in a concentration-dependent manner with the addition of Hg²⁺ ions, confirming the interaction of Carr-Ag/AgCl NPs with Hg²⁺ ions. The plot of the extinction ratio of absorbance at 350nm to 450nm (A₃₅₀/A₄₅₀) for Carr-Ag/AgCl NPs against the concentration of [Hg²⁺] ions was linear, and the calibration curve was A₃₅₀/A₄₅₀=1.05254+0.00318×C_Hg with a lower detection limit of 1μM. This portable and cost-effective method for mercury(II) ion sensing is widely applicable in on-field qualitative and quantitative measurements of [Hg²⁺] ions in environmental or biological samples.

Highly Sensitive Fluorescence Detection of Hg2+ Based on a Water-soluble Conjugated Polymer with Carboxylate Groups

A label-free, highly selective, and highly sensitive fluorescent sensor to detect Hg²⁺ was developed using a water-soluble conjugated polymer with carboxylate groups (poly(2,5-bis(sodium 4-oxybutyrate)-1,4-phenylethynylene-alt-1,4-phenyleneethynylene, PPE-OBS) in this work. The fluorescence of PPE-OBS would be quenched because of the effect among the unique coordination-induced aggregation and electron transfers of PPE-OBS toward Hg²⁺. The linear relationship between the fluorescence intensity and concentration of Hg²⁺ was observed within the range from 6 × 10^-8 to 8 × 10^-5 mol L^-1 (R² = 0.9985), and the limit of detection was 2.10 × 10^-9 mol L^-1. The proposed method was applied to detect Hg²⁺ in environmental water samples, and satisfactory results were obtained.

Application of iridium(III) complex in label-free and non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide based on a novel "on-off-on" switch platform

We herein report a label-free and non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for the highly sensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) based on a novel "on-off-on" switch system. In our design, MB was used as an electron mediator to accelerate the electron transfer while AuNPs was used to amplify the electrochemical signal due to its excellent biocompatibility and good conductivity. The "switch-off" state was achieved by introducing the guanine-rich capture probe (CP) and an iridium complex onto the electrode surface to form a hydrophobic layer, which then hinders electron transfer. Upon addition of H2O2, fenton reaction occurs and produces OH• in the presence of Fe(2+). The OH• cleaves the CP into DNA fragments, thus resulting in the release of CP and iridium complex from the sensing interface, recovering the electrochemical signal to generate a "switch-on" state. Based on this novel switch system, a detection limit as low as 3.2 pM can be achieved for H2O2 detection. Moreover, satisfactory results were obtained by using this method for the detection of H2O2 in sterilized milk. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first G-quadruplex-based electrochemical sensor using an iridium(III) complex.

Chromatic analysis by monitoring unmodified silver nanoparticles reduction on double layer microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for selective and sensitive determination of mercury(II)

This study demonstrates chromatic analysis based on a simple red green blue (RGB) color model for sensitive and selective determination of mercury(II). The analysis was performed by monitoring the color change of a microfluidic Paper-based Analytical Device (µPAD). The device was fabricated by using alkyl ketene dimer (AKD)-inkjet printing and doped with unmodified silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which were disintegrated when being exposed to mercury(II). The color intensity was detected by using an apparatus consisting of a digital camera and a homemade light box generating constant light intensity. A progressive increase in color intensity of the tested area on the µPAD (3.0mm) was observed with increasing mercury(II) concentration. The developed system enabled quantification of mercury(II) at low concentration with the detection limit of 0.001mgL(-1) (3 SD blank/slope of the calibration curve) and small sample volume uptake (2µL). The linearity range of the calibration curve in this technique was demonstrated from 0.05 to 7mgL(-1) (r(2)=0.998) with good precision (RSD less than 4.1%). Greater selectivity towards mercury(II) compared with potential interference ions was also observed. Furthermore, the percentage recoveries of spiked water samples were in an acceptable range which was in agreement with the values obtained from the conventional method utilizing cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometer (CVAAS). The proposed technique allows a rapid, simple, sensitive and selective analysis of trace mercury(II) in water samples.

Fluorescence turn-on detection of mercury ions based on the controlled adsorption of a perylene probe onto the gold nanoparticles

A novel fluorescence turn-on strategy based on Au nanoparticles and a perylene probe for the sensing of Hg(2+) ions has been developed. It was observed that a perylene probe could be adsorbed onto the surface of Au NPs through strong electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Its fluorescence was efficiently quenched by the Au nanoparticles. However, in the presence of Hg(2+) and NaBH4, Hg(2+) was reduced and an Au/Hg amalgam was formed on the surface of the Au nanoparticles. The perylene probe could hardly be adsorbed and quenched by the Au/Hg amalgam. A turn on fluorescence signal was therefore detected. The assay is quite sensitive, and 5 nM Hg(2+) could be easily detected. It is also very selective, a number of metal ions were tested and no noticeable interference was observed. The assay was also successfully applied for the determination of Hg(2+) in lake water samples. A simple, fast, inexpensive, highly sensitive and selective Hg(2+) sensing strategy is therefore established.