A dual fluorometric and colorimetric sensor for dopamine based on BSA-stabilized Aunanoclusters

An easy prepared fluorometric and colorimetric dual channel probe is developed for dopamine (DA) detection with high sensitivity and selectivity by use of BSA-stabilized Au nanoclusters (BSA-AuNCs). The BSA-AuNCs exhibit strong fluorescence emission, while upon addition of DA, the AuNCs show a dramatic decrease of the fluorescence intensity as a result of the photo-induced electron transfer process from the electrostatically attached DA to the BSA-AuNCs. The detection limit of DA can be as low as 10 nM. In addition, the assay for DA can also be easy to implement for visual detection due to the observed inhibition of the peroxidase-like activity of AuNCs in the presence of DA, with a detection limit of 10 nM. Both fluorometric and colorimetric methods exhibit excellent selectivity toward DA over interfering substances. Furthermore, we demonstrate the application of the present approach in hydrochloride injection sample, human serum sample and PC12 cells, which suggests its great potential for diagnostic purposes.

► A fluorescence assay for dopamine is developed based on the fluorescence quenching of BSA-AuNCs.
► A colorimetric approach for dopamine detection can also be realized.
► The colorimetric assay is based on the inhibition of the peroxidase-like activity of AuNCs.
► This method can be successfully used for the determination of dopamine in real samples.