Serotonin-Derived Fluorophore: A Novel Fluorescent Biomaterial for Copper Detection in Urine

Abstract

We took advantage of the fluorescent features of a serotonin-derived fluorophore to develop a simple and low-cost assay for copper in urine. The quenching-based fluorescence assay linearly responds within the concentration range of clinical interest in buffer and in artificial urine, showing very good reproducibility (CVav% = 4% and 3%) and low detection limits (16 ± 1 μg L−1 and 23 ± 1 μg L−1). The Cu2+ content was also estimated in human urine samples, showing excellent analytical performances (CVav% = 1%), with a limit of detection of 59 ± 3 μg L−1 and a limit of quantification of 97 ± 11 μg L−1, which are below the reference value for a pathological Cu2+ concentration. The assay was successfully validated through mass spectrometry measurements. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of copper ion detection exploiting the fluorescence quenching of a biopolymer, offering a potential diagnostic tool for copper-dependent diseases.

Preparation of carbon quantum dot fluorescent probe from waste fruit peel and its use for the detection of dopamine

“…In contrast, the method described in this paper utilizes fluorescent carbon quantum dots and is characterized by strong selectivity, high fluorescence quantum yield, and low cost. 7…”

“…In contrast, the method described in this paper utilizes uorescent carbon quantum dots and is characterized by strong selectivity, high uorescence quantum yield, and low cost. 7 CQDs are a new type of carbon nanofunctional material with photoluminescent properties. They have a simple synthesis method and exhibit good optical stability.…”