Binding-induced collapse of DNA nano-assembly for naked-eye detection of ATP with plasmonic gold nanoparticles

•The binding of ATP triggered the collapse of the DNA superstructures.•The detection time was significantly decreased to 10 min.•The results can be recognized by naked eyes.

The detection of small molecules depends heavily on complicated GC–MS (Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry), HPLC (High-performance liquid chromatography) and some other complicated instruments that are not suitable for point of care detection. Here, we have demonstrated a fast (in 10 min), simple (instrument-free) and effective detection platform for small molecule-ATP. In our design, we engineered the hybridization region of aptamer and assembled it into a superstructure to avoid the exposed flexible ends. The binding of ATP triggered the collapse of the superstructures to produce single stranded DNA that can obviously tune the plasmonic coupling of unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Compared to detection platforms based on fully hybridized aptamer double helix, the detection time was significantly decreased to 10 min. The resulting color change can be recognized by naked eyes. Our detection is highly specific and selective. Furthermore, a logic gate with multiplexed detection capability for ATP and DNA were demonstrated.