Detection of HCG-antigen based on enhanced photoluminescence of hierarchical ZnO arrays

► Antibody protein of HCG was conjugated to hierarchical ZnO arrays by carbodiimide method. ► Their PL intensity enhanced linearly with the antibody concentration in 40-160 ng/mL. ► Detection of HCG antigen in 2-20 ng/mL was achieved with PL spectrometer. ► Hierarchical ZnO arrays are envisioned in the detection of early tumor markers.