Sensitive determination of lysozyme by using a luminescent and colorimetric probe based on the aggregation of gold nanoparticles induced by an anionic ruthenate(II) complex

The negatively charged ruthenate(II) complex [Ru(bpy)(PPh₃)(CN)₃]^- and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were used for detecting lysozyme (LYS). The luminescence of the ruthenate(II) complex is quenched by AuNPs, and this induces the aggregation of AuNPs and a color change from red to blue. After addition of lysozyme, the positively charged lysozyme and the negatively charged ruthenate(II) complex bind each other by electrostatic interaction firstly. This prevents AuNPs from aggregation and quenches the emission of the ruthenate(II) complex. Its luminescence and the degree of aggregation of the AuNPs can be used to quantify LYS. The fluorometric calibration plot is linear in the 0.01 to 0.20 μM LYS concentration range, and the calibration plot is linear between 0.02 and 0.20 μM of LYS. The color of the solution can be easily distinguished by bare eyes at 0.08 μM or higher concentration of LYS. The applicability of the method was verified by the correct analysis of LYS in chicken egg white. Graphical abstract Schematic of a luminometric and colorimetric probe based on the induced aggregation of gold nanoparticles by an anionic luminescent ruthenate(II) complex or sensitive lysozyme detection.