Preparation of molecular imprinted fluorescence sensor based on Er3+/ZnS QDs and its selective detection of ciprofloxacin in various matrices

Abstract

Background Ciprofloxacin is a widely used antibiotic in medicine and agriculture. It can cause pollution to the environment and food, thereby affecting human health. Objective This study proposes the preparation of molecular imprinted fluorescent sensors and their selective detection of ciprofloxacin, with the aim of achieving specific recognition and accurate detection of ciprofloxacin. Methods Rare earth metal Er3+ is added to ZnS quantum dots to prepare a molecularly imprinted fluorescence sensor (MIP/Er3+/ZnS QDs). The effects of substance concentration, pH value, and time on the fluorescence detection intensity are analyzed to determine the optimal fluorescence detection conditions. Results Experimental results showed that the sensor accurately detected ciprofloxacin with a detection limit of 31 nmol/L and the linear range of 0.1–10 μmol/L. The sensor had a recovery rate of 99.7% to 103.5% for ciprofloxacin in milk samples, with a relative standard deviation of less than 5%, indicating accurate determination of ciprofloxacin content. Conclusion Molecularly imprinted fluorescent sensors have enormous application potential in the monitoring and control of ciprofloxacin, and are of great significance for ensuring environmental and food safety.