Ultrasensitive detection of potassium ions based on target induced DNA conformational switch enhanced fluorescence polarization

We have developed a simple, highly sensitive and selective fluorescence polarization assay for the detection of potassium ions based on target induced DNA conformational switch from hairpin to G-quadruplex enhanced fluorescence polarization. The assay was applied in the detection of low nM concentrations of potassium ions and was highly selective over other cations.