Persistent luminescence nanorods-based autofluorescence-free biosensor for prostate-specific antigen detection

Persistent luminescent nanoparticles (PLNPs) are a class of materials with excellent optical properties, which can continue to emit light for a long time after removing the excitation light source. This feature enables PLNPs to be used for development of biological detection modes without autofluorescence background. In this study, we prepared Zn2GeO4: Mn2+, Pr3+ (ZGOMP) nanorods through a one-pot hydrothermal method. Using the pH-responsive luminescence behavior of ZGOMP, we developed an autofluorescence-free biosensor using ZGOMP as a probe and gluconic acid as a quencher to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Hybridization chain reaction (HCR) and magnetic separation system were introduced in the design to achieve efficient signal amplification. Under the optimal conditions, the as-designed autofluorescence-free sensing platform showed high selectivity, and showed a good luminescence response to PSA within the linear range of 0.001-10 ng/mL at a detection limit of 0.64 pg/mL. The excellent analytical performance shows that the current strategy provides an effective platform for clinical sample analysis.

Automated summary

In this study, Zn2GeO4: Mn2+, Pr3+ (ZGOMP) nanorods were prepared and used as probes to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) with high selectivity and good analytical performance, making it an effective platform for clinical sample analysis. Hybritization chain reaction (HCR) and magnetic separation system were introduced for efficient signal amplification in the design.