Highly sensitive and selective detection of biothiols using graphene oxide-based “molecular beacon”-like fluorescent probe

A fluorometric method for quantity analysis of biothiols was developed using a graphene oxide (GO)-based “molecular beacon”-like probe, which consisted of FITC labeled thymine (T)-rich single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), GO and Hg2+ ions. The labeled ssDNA containing T–T mismatches would self-hybridize to duplex in the presence of Hg2+, which can avoid its adsorption on GO and the fluorescence of this GO-based probe was recovered. The fluorescence of the probe quenched after the addition of biothiols such as glutathione (GSH) and cysteine (Cys) owing to thiol groups can selectively competitive ligation of Hg2+ ions with T–T mismatches. In the present work, the GO-based probe was used for the determination of GSH and Cys. Under the optimal conditions, a linear correlation was established between fluorescence intensity ratio I0/I and the concentration of GSH in the range of 2.0 × 10−9–5.0 × 10−7 mol L−1 with a detection limit of 1.0 × 10−9 mol L−1. The linear range for Cys is from 5.0 × 10−9 to 4.5 × 10−7 mol L−1 with a detection limit of 2.0 × 10−9 mol L−1. The proposed method was applied to the determination of GSH in human serum and cell extract samples with satisfactory results.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The GO-based probe consisted of FITC labeled T-rich ssDNA, GO and Hg2+ ions.
► The method was based on a competitive ligation of Hg2+ by GSH/Cys and T–T mismatches.
► Good sensitivity and selectivity were obtained for the determination of GSH/Cys.
► Biothiols in serum and cell extract samples were detected with satisfactory results.