1
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Puglisi R, Santonocito R, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Smart Sensing of Nerve Agents. Chempluschem 2024; 89:e202400098. [PMID: 38647287 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202400098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The recent international scenario highlights the importance to protect human health and environmental quality from toxic compounds. In this context, organophosphorous (OP) Nerve Agents (NAs) have received particular attention, due to their use in terrorist attacks. Classical instrumental detection techniques are sensitive and selective, but they cannot be used in real field due to the high cost, specialized personnel requested and huge size. For these reasons, the development of practical, easy and fast detection methods (smart methods) is the future of this field. Indeed, starting from initial sensing research, based on optical and/or electrical sensors, today the development and use of smart strategies to detect NAs is the current state of the art. This review summarizes the smart strategies to detect NAs, highlighting some important parameters, such as linearity, limit of detection and selectivity. Furthermore, some critical comments of the future on this field, and in particular, the problems to be solved before a real application of these methods, are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Puglisi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Rossella Santonocito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
- INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
- INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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2
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Santonocito R, Puglisi R, Cavallaro A, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Cortisol sensing by optical sensors. Analyst 2024; 149:989-1001. [PMID: 38226461 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01801f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
During a stress condition, the human body synthesizes catecholamine neurotransmitters and specific hormones (called "stress hormones"), the most important of which is cortisol. The monitoring of cortisol levels is extremely important for controlling the stress levels. For this reason, it has important medical applications. Common analytical methods (HPLC, GC-MS) cannot be used in real life due to the bulkiness of the instruments and the necessity of specialized operators. Molecular probes solve this problem. This review aims to provide a description of recent developments in this field, focusing on the analytical aspects and the possibility to obtain real practical devices from these molecular probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Santonocito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Roberta Puglisi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Alessia Cavallaro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
- INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
- INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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3
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Puglisi R, Santonocito R, Butera E, Mendola GL, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Supramolecular Detection of a Sub-ppm Nerve Agent Simulant by a Smartphone Tool. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:38038-38044. [PMID: 37867699 PMCID: PMC10586250 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c03759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of smartphones and related tools is extending their applications in several fields. Herein, we report a reusable smartphone coupled portable detection system for the sensing of sub-ppm level of a nerve agent mimic (dimethylmethylphosphonate) in the gas phase. The detection system is based on multiple hydrogen-bond interactions of the vapor analyte with an ad-hoc functionalized Bodipy chromophore scaffold. The multitopic approach used for the molecular recognition of DMMP leads to the highest binding constant values, high selectivity, and low limits of detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Puglisi
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Rossella Santonocito
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Ester Butera
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Giulia Lorenza Mendola
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
- INSTM
Udr of Catania, Viale
Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
- INSTM
Udr of Catania, Viale
Andrea Doria 6, Catania 95125, Italy
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4
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Santonocito R, Tuccitto N, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Smartphone-Based Dopamine Detection by Fluorescent Supramolecular Sensor. Molecules 2022; 27:7503. [PMID: 36364331 PMCID: PMC9654496 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Supramolecular recognition of dopamine by two quinoxaline cavitands was studied in solution by fluorescence titrations, ESI-MS and ROESY measurements. In addition, the tetraquinoxaline cavitand was dropped onto a siloxane-based polymeric solid support, obtaining a sensor able to detect dopamine in a linear range of concentrations 10 Mm-100 pM, with a detection limit of 1 pM, much lower than the normal concentration values in the common human fluids (plasma, urine and saliva), by using a simple smartphone as detector. This sensor shows also good selectivity for dopamine respect to the other common analytes contained in a saliva sample and can be reused after acid-base cycles, paving the way for the realization of real practical sensor for human dopamine detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Santonocito
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Nunzio Tuccitto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Laboratory for Molecular Surfaces and Nanotechnology—CSGI, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
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5
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Foelen Y, Puglisi R, Debije MG, Schenning APHJ. Photonic Liquid Crystal
Polymer Absorbent for Immobilization
and Detection of Gaseous Nerve Agent Simulants. ACS APPLIED OPTICAL MATERIALS 2022; 1:107-114. [PMCID: PMC9903360 DOI: 10.1021/acsaom.2c00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Detection and sequestration of chemical warfare agents (CWAs), such as poisonous organophosphates, are highly desirable for both personal security and environmental protection. However, both sensing and absorption in a single device have been rarely reported. In this study, we describe a photonic absorbent based on a cholesteric liquid crystal polymer as a dual sensing and decontamination device for gas-type CWAs. Dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) was used as a simulant compound. A blue reflective photonic polymer was fabricated that was able to detect DMMP vapor through absorption. Hydrogen bond interactions between DMMP and mesogenic carboxylic groups of the polymer allow selectivity and capture. A distinct optical change of the film from blue to bright green indicates the absorption of DMMP vapor molecules and confirms when full absorption of the polymer is achieved. The diffusion of DMMP vapor into the material was observed by the formation of a sharp boundary between swollen and unswollen material, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy images and the structural color changes. In ambient conditions, DMMP molecules are retained in the photonic absorbent without release to the environment. Heating above approximately 60 °C releases the absorbed DMMP, leading to a reusable optical device. These results confirm the ability of photonic polymers to sense and immobilize dangerous vapor, paving the way for the realization of simple, battery-free optical devices able to simultaneously warn and protect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yari Foelen
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Roberta Puglisi
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Michael G. Debije
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P. H. J. Schenning
- Laboratory
of Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department
of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- SCNU-TUE
Joint Laboratory of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), South China Normal University, Guangzhou Higher Education
Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven
University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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6
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Zhang L, Chen J, Zhang X, Wang Y, Cen J, Shi G, Sun M, Wang X, Meng W, Xiao K. Rapid detection of nerve agents in environmental and biological samples using a fluorescent probe. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 275:121171. [PMID: 35325854 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nerve agents are highly toxic chemical warfare agents that are easy to synthesize and have recently been applied many times in local wars and terrorist attacks. Fluorescent probes have been widely used in life science and medical research due to their features of short reaction time, high sensitivity and good selectivity. Herein, two fluorescent compounds, NMU-1 and NMU-2, were synthesized for the selective detection of nerve agents. NMU-1 exhibited good detection performance for nerve agents. With increasing nerve agent concentration, the fluorescence signal of NMU-1 at 498 nm gradually decreased with an excellent linear relationship. NMU-1 exhibited a low LOD (4.6 μM for DCP and 8.41 μM for soman), a rapid response (less than 3 min) and a large Stokes shift (98 nm) along with obvious color changes. Due to its high sensitivity and good selectivity, NMU-1 was successfully applied to image nerve agents in living PC12 cells. Furthermore, NMU-1 was used as a key element to develop chemical warfare agent test paper, which exhibited significant fluorescent changes under hand-held 365-nm UV light upon contact with nerve agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, China.
| | - Jiasheng Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Yurun Wang
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jinfeng Cen
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Guiyan Shi
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Mingxue Sun
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xianyou Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Wenqi Meng
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Kai Xiao
- Department of Protective Medicine Against Chemical Agents, Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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7
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Zhu B, Sheng R, Chen T, Rodrigues J, Song QH, Hu X, Zeng L. Molecular engineered optical probes for chemical warfare agents and their mimics: Advances, challenges and perspectives. Coord Chem Rev 2022. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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8
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Molecular engineered optical probes for chemical warfare agents and their mimics: Advances, challenges and perspectives. Coord Chem Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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9
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Zangiabadi M, Mehrabi F, Nasiripur P, Baghersad MH. Visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of methyl parathion as chemical warfare agent simulant by NiO/Bi2MoO6 heterojunction photocatalyst. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.132472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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10
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Tuccitto N, Catania G, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Agile Detection of Chemical Warfare Agents by Machine Vision: a Supramolecular Approach. Chemistry 2021; 27:13715-13718. [PMID: 34414611 PMCID: PMC8518932 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202102094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The supramolecular detection by image analysis of a simulant chemical warfare agent on a solid device containing a selective molecular sensor based on a BODIPY scaffold is reported. The recognition properties were investigated in solution, demonstrating high affinity (log K 6.60) and sensitivity (LOD 10 ppt). A test strip also confirmed the sensing properties in gas phase. Image analysis of the solid device allows quantitative information about the simulant to be obtained, recovering the sensor almost 5 times and thus confirming the goal of the supramolecular approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Tuccitto
- Department of Chemical SciencesUniversity of Catania95125CataniaItaly
- Laboratory for Molecular Surfaces and Nanotechnology – CSGI95125CataniaItaly
| | - Gaetano Catania
- Department of Chemical SciencesUniversity of Catania95125CataniaItaly
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical SciencesUniversity of Catania95125CataniaItaly
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania95125CataniaItaly
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical SciencesUniversity of Catania95125CataniaItaly
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania95125CataniaItaly
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11
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Butera E, Zammataro A, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Supramolecular Sensing of Chemical Warfare Agents. Chempluschem 2021; 86:681-695. [PMID: 33881227 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chemical warfare agents are a class of organic molecules used as chemical weapons due to their high toxicity and lethal effects. For this reason, the fast detection of these compounds in the environment is crucial. Traditional detection methods are based on instrumental techniques, such as mass spectrometry or HPLC, however the use of molecular sensors able to change a detectable property (e. g., luminescence, color, electrical resistance) can be cheaper and faster. Today, molecular sensing of chemical warfare agents is mainly based on the "covalent approach", in which the sensor reacts with the analyte, or on the "supramolecular approach", which involves the formation of non-covalent interactions between the sensor and the analyte. This Review is focused on the recent developments of supramolecular sensors of organophosphorus chemical warfare agents (from 2013). In particular, supramolecular sensors are classified by function of the sensing mechanism: i) Lewis Acids, ii) hydrogen bonds, iii) macrocyclic hosts, iv) multi-topic sensors, v) nanosensors. It is shown how the supramolecular non-covalent approach leads to a reversible sensing and higher selectivity towards the selected analyte respect to other interfering molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Butera
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Agatino Zammataro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.,INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.,INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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12
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Liu P, Wang H, Zeng H, Hong X, Huang F. A [1 5]paracyclophenone and its fluorenone-containing derivatives: syntheses and binding to nerve agent mimics via aryl-CH hydrogen bonding interactions. Org Chem Front 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d0qo00456a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A [15]paracyclophenone and its fluorenone-containing derivatives were synthesized. The novel macrocyclic host I binds nerve agent mimics through the ‘non-traditional’ aryl-CH hydrogen bonding interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiren Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering
- Center for Chemistry of High- Performance & Novel Materials
- Department of Chemistry
- Zhejiang University
- Hangzhou 310027
| | - Hongliang Wang
- Department of Chemistry
- Zhejiang University
- Hangzhou 310027
- P. R. China
| | - Hong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering
- Center for Chemistry of High- Performance & Novel Materials
- Department of Chemistry
- Zhejiang University
- Hangzhou 310027
| | - Xin Hong
- Department of Chemistry
- Zhejiang University
- Hangzhou 310027
- P. R. China
| | - Feihe Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering
- Center for Chemistry of High- Performance & Novel Materials
- Department of Chemistry
- Zhejiang University
- Hangzhou 310027
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13
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Gangemi CMA, Rimkaite U, Pappalardo A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Light-up photoluminescence sensing of a nerve agent simulant by a bis-porphyrin–salen–UO 2 complex. RSC Adv 2021; 11:13047-13050. [PMID: 35423859 PMCID: PMC8697308 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra01397a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A luminescent bis-porphyrin–salen–UO2 complex, showing a significant fluorescence light-up response upon reacting with DMMP (a simulant of nerve agents), is reported. The fluorescence change of this complex by excitation at 365 nm can be clearly observed with the naked eye, and this complex was successfully employed to construct a test paper to detect nerve agents. The exposure of a nerve agent simulant to a fluorogenic sensor results in a significant increase in fluorescence response, allowing the construction of a paper test for the naked-eye detection of DMMP.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ugne Rimkaite
- Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences
- University of Vilnius
- Vilnius
- Lithuania
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences
- University of Catania
- Catania
- Italy
- INSTM Udr of Catania
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14
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Tuccitto N, Spitaleri L, Li Destri G, Pappalardo A, Gulino A, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Supramolecular Sensing of a Chemical Warfare Agents Simulant by Functionalized Carbon Nanoparticles. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235731. [PMID: 33291853 PMCID: PMC7730470 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Real-time sensing of chemical warfare agents by optical sensors is today a crucial target to prevent terroristic attacks by chemical weapons. Here the synthesis, characterization and detection properties of a new sensor, based on covalently functionalized carbon nanoparticles, are reported. This nanosensor exploits noncovalent interactions, in particular hydrogen bonds, to detect DMMP, a simulant of nerve agents. The nanostructure of the sensor combined with the supramolecular sensing approach leads to high binding constant affinity, high selectivity and the possibility to reuse the sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Tuccitto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- Laboratory for Molecular Surfaces and Nanotechnology–CSGI, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (N.T.); (G.T.S.); Tel.: +39-0957385201 (G.T.S.)
| | - Luca Spitaleri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Destri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- Laboratory for Molecular Surfaces and Nanotechnology–CSGI, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Gulino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.L.D.); (A.P.); (A.G.)
- National Interuniversity Consortium for Materials Science and Technology (I.N.S.T.M.) Research Unit of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (N.T.); (G.T.S.); Tel.: +39-0957385201 (G.T.S.)
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15
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Pappalardo A, Gangemi CM, Toscano RM, Sfrazzetto GT. A New Fluorescent Salen-uranyl Sensor for the Sub-ppm Detection of Chemical Warfare Agents. CURR ORG CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1385272824999200930150313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Real-time sensing of Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) is today a crucial topic to
prevent the lethal effects of a terroristic chemical attack. For this reason, the development of
efficient, selective, sensitive and reversible sensoristic devices, able to detect by optical response
ppm levels of these compounds, is strongly required. Here, the synthesis of a new fluorescent
sensor based on a salen-uranyl scaffold, functionalized with two bodipy moieties, and
its application for the detection of sub-ppm levels of CWAs is reported. Detection properties
were evaluated by fluorescence measurements and selectivity tests demonstrated the strong
affinity for CWAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pappalardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Universita degli Studi di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara M.A. Gangemi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Universita degli Studi di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Toscano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Universita degli Studi di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Universita degli Studi di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95100 Catania, Italy
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16
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Abstract
Nerve agents (NAs) are a group of highly toxic organophosphorus compounds developed before World War II. They are related to organophosphorus pesticides, although they have much higher human acute toxicity than commonly used pesticides. After the detection of the presence of NAs, the critical step is the fast decontamination of the environment in order to avoid the lethal effect of these organophosphorus compounds on exposed humans. This review collects the catalytic degradation reactions of NAs, in particular focusing our attention on chemical hydrolysis. These reactions are catalyzed by different catalyst categories (metal-based, polymeric, heterogeneous, enzymatic and MOFs), all of them described in this review.
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17
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Fan S, Zhang G, Dennison GH, FitzGerald N, Burn PL, Gentle IR, Shaw PE. Challenges in Fluorescence Detection of Chemical Warfare Agent Vapors Using Solid-State Films. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1905785. [PMID: 31692155 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201905785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Organophosphorus (OP)-based nerve agents are extremely toxic and potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and recent attacks involving nerve agents highlight the need for fast detection and intervention. Fluorescence-based detection, where the sensing material undergoes a chemical reaction with the agent causing a measurable change in the luminescence, is one method for sensing and identifying nerve agents. Most studies use the simulants diethylchlorophosphate and di-iso-propylfluorophosphate to evaluate the performance of sensors due to their reduced toxicity relative to OP nerve agents. While detection of nerve agent simulants in solution is relatively widely reported, there are fewer reports on vapor detection using solid-state sensors. Herein, progress in organic semiconductor sensing materials developed for solid-state detection of OP-based nerve agent vapors is reviewed. The effect of acid impurities arising from the hydrolysis of simulants and nerve agents on the efficacy and selectivity of the reported sensing materials is also discussed. Indeed, in some cases it is unclear whether it is the simulant that is detected or the acid hydrolysis products. Finally, it is highlighted that while analyte diffusion into the sensing film is critical in the design of fast, responsive sensing systems, it is an area that is currently not well studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengqiang Fan
- Centre for Organic Photonics & Electronics, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Guanran Zhang
- Centre for Organic Photonics & Electronics, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Genevieve H Dennison
- Land Division, Defence Science and Technology Group, Fishermans Bend, Victoria, 3207, Australia
| | - Nicholas FitzGerald
- Land Division, Defence Science and Technology Group, Fishermans Bend, Victoria, 3207, Australia
| | - Paul L Burn
- Centre for Organic Photonics & Electronics, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Ian R Gentle
- Centre for Organic Photonics & Electronics, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Paul E Shaw
- Centre for Organic Photonics & Electronics, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
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Legnani L, Puglisi R, Pappalardo A, Chiacchio MA, Trusso Sfrazzetto G. Supramolecular recognition of phosphocholine by an enzyme-like cavitand receptor. Chem Commun (Camb) 2019; 56:539-542. [PMID: 31829317 DOI: 10.1039/c9cc07577a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The first example of supramolecular recognition of phosphocholine by a cavitand receptor has been reported here. The chemical structure of the receptor has been optimized by DFT calculations. The recognition mechanism is based on a "multi-topic approach", which leads to highly efficient (K value up to 107 M-1), selective and sensitive (ppb level) sensing of phosphocholine. The recognition mechanism proposed here is similar to those exploited by Nature, and paves the way for the realization of new sensors with important applications in medicine and security fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Legnani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Del Farmaco, Università di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, 95125, Italy
| | - Roberta Puglisi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy. and INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Chiacchio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Del Farmaco, Università di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, 95125, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy. and INSTM Udr of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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19
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Gangemi CMA, Rimkaite U, Cipria F, Trusso Sfrazzetto G, Pappalardo A. Enantiomeric Recognition of α-Aminoacids by a Uranyl Salen-Bis-Porphyrin Complex. Front Chem 2019; 7:836. [PMID: 31850322 PMCID: PMC6902086 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ugne Rimkaite
- Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, University of Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Federica Cipria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Trusso Sfrazzetto
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- I.N.S.T.M. - Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Pappalardo
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- I.N.S.T.M. - Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Andrea Pappalardo
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Kim MJ, Song EJ, Kim KH, Choi SS, Lee YS. The textural and chemical changes in ACFs with E-beam and their influence on the detection of nerve agent simulant gases. J IND ENG CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2019.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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21
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de A. Cavalcante SF, Simas ABC, Kuča K. Nerve Agents’ Surrogates: Invaluable Tools for Development of Acetylcholinesterase Reactivators. CURR ORG CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1385272823666190806114017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The use of nerve agents as warfare and in terrorist acts has drawn much attention from the governments and societies. Such toxic organophosphorus compounds are listed in Chemical Weapons Convention as Schedule 1 chemicals. The discussion about the chemical identity of the elusive Novichok agents, more potent compounds than best known G- and V-Agents, which have been implicated in recent rumorous assassination plots, clearly demonstrating the importance of the matter. Furthermore, accidents with pesticides or misuse thereof have been a pressing issue in many countries. In this context, the continued development of novel cholinesterase reactivators, antidotes for organophosphorus poisoning, a rather restricted class of pharmaceutical substances, is warranted. Testing of novel candidates may require use of actual nerve agents. Nonetheless, only a few laboratories comply with the requirements for storing, possession and manipulation of such toxic chemicals. To overcome such limitations, nerve agents’ surrogates may be a useful alternative, as they undergo the same reaction with cholinesterases, yielding similar adducts, allowing assays with novel antidote candidates, among other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir F. de A. Cavalcante
- Walter Mors Institute of Research on Natural Products (IPPN), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro B. C. Simas
- Walter Mors Institute of Research on Natural Products (IPPN), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Kamil Kuča
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
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Supramolecular Detection of a Nerve Agent Simulant by Fluorescent Zn-Salen Oligomer Receptors. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24112160. [PMID: 31181723 PMCID: PMC6600340 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24112160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on new Zn-Salen oligomer receptors able to recognize a nerve agent simulant, namely dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), by a supramolecular approach. In particular, three Zn-Salen oligomers (Zn-Oligo-A, -B, and -C), differing by the length distribution, were obtained and characterized by NMR, Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), UV-Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Furthermore, we investigated their recognition properties towards DMMP by using fluorescence measurements. We found that the recognition ability depends on the length of the oligomeric chain, and the Zn-Oligo-C shows a binding constant value higher than those already reported in literature for the DMMP detection.
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