Dual-binding domain electrochemiluminescence biosensing platform with self-checking function for sensitive detection of synthetic cathinone in e-cigarettes

Current single signal electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensors are susceptible to false positive or false negative phenomena due to experimental conditions. Therefore, sensors with self-checking function are attracting democratic attention. In quick succession, a highly sensitive single-cathode dual ECL signal aptasensor with self-checking function to improve the shortcomings mentioned above was designed. This aptasensor used In-based metal-organic framework (MIL-68) as load and stabilizer to effectively attenuate the aggregation-induced quenching (ACQ) effect of porphyrin derivatives (Sn-TCPP) while improve ECL stability. The introduction of cooperative-binding split-aptamers (CBSAs) aptamers increased the specificity of the aptasensor and its unique double-binding domains detection accelerated the detection efficiency. When analyzing 3,4-methylenedioxypyr-ovalerone (MDPV), we could calculate two concentrations based on the strength of ECL 1 and ECL 2. If the concentrations are the same, the result would be obtained; if not, it should be retested. Depending on the above operation, the results achieve self-check. It was found that the designed aptasensor could quantify the concen-tration of MDPV between 1.0 x 10-12 g/L and 1.0 x 10-6 g/L with the limit of detection (LOD) of 1.4 x 10-13 g/ L and 2.0 x 10-13 g/L, respectively (3 sigma/slope). This study not only improves the detection technology of MDPV, but also explores the dual-signal detection of porphyrin for the first time and enriches the definition of self-checking sensor.

Automated summary

A highly sensitive single-cathode dual electrochemiluminescence (ECL) signal aptasensor with self-checking function was designed using In-based metal-organic framework (MIL-68) as a stabilizer. The introduction of cooperative-binding split-aptamers (CBSAs) improved the specificity and detection efficiency. The aptasensor could quantify the concentration of MDPV between 1.0 x 10-12 g/L and 1.0 x 10-6 g/L with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.4 x 10-13 g/L and 2.0 x 10-13 g/L, respectively.