Target specific aptamer-induced self-assembly of fluorescent graphene quantum dots on palladium nanoparticles for sensitive detection of tetracycline in raw milk

The excessive use of tetracyclines (TCs), a bacteriostatic antibiotic, in food products, has led to the accumulation of TCs residues in the human body, affecting human health seriously. Therefore, the development of a highly sensitive method to detect TCs in food is of utmost importance. This study reports a novel sensing strategy using aptamer-induced fluorescence fluctuation of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) for the rapid and label-free detection of tetracycline with a limit of detection of 45 ng.mL(-1). A novel single-step synthesis of positively charged Pd NPs and one-step green synthesis of GQDs directly from graphite has been developed. The proposed strategy provides an efficient way to detect low traces of TCs and a new technique for the development of aptamer-based sensors.

Automated summary

This study presents a novel sensing strategy for the rapid and label-free detection of tetracycline using aptamer-induced fluorescence fluctuation of graphene quantum dots and palladium nanoparticles, with a limit of detection of 45 ng.mL(-1). Additionally, a new synthesis method for positively charged palladium nanoparticles and green synthesis of GQDs directly from graphite has been developed. This proposed strategy offers an efficient way to detect low traces of TCs and a new technique for the development of aptamer-based sensors.