Copper Complex Fluoroprobe for Selective Homocysteine Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting homocysteine in biological samples are hindered by interference from other amino acids and require high concentrations of organic solvents, making them unsuitable for clinical and biological studies.
Innovation Solution
Development of a copper complex (Formula B) that selectively detects homocysteine in aqueous solutions at physiological pH (7 to 7.5) using a turn-on fluorosense response observable under a UV lamp, without interference from other amino acids like cysteine and glutathione.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluorimetric detection methods using dansyl azide based probes are used, then homocysteine can be detected, but high concentration of organic solvent (10% ethanol) is required to make the dye soluble
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical structure parameters of the probe by introducing a copper(II) complex with a specific ligand system (containing pyridine and hydroxamate groups). This structural modification fundamentally alters the solubility parameters, enabling the probe to dissolve in aqueous physiological buffers without requiring organic co-solvents, thus resolving the contradiction between detection capability and organic solvent requirement
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite detection system by forming a copper(II) complex between the designed ligand and copper ions. This composite material combines the recognition capability of the ligand with the fluorescent properties enhanced by the copper center, achieving both water solubility and effective homocysteine detection without organic solvents
2Measurement precision
If selective detection of homocysteine is achieved, then interference from cysteine and glutathione is eliminated, but high concentration of dye (120 μM) is required for detection
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by designing the ligand with specific functional groups (pyridine nitrogen and hydroxamate oxygen) at particular positions that create a localized binding site with high affinity and selectivity for homocysteine. This localized optimized interaction enables selective detection at low concentrations without requiring high overall dye concentration
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the conventional high-concentration fluorescent probe system with a copper(II) complex-based detection mechanism. The copper complex provides enhanced binding affinity and selectivity through coordinated interactions, substituting the need for high mechanical concentration of dye with a more efficient chemical recognition mechanism that works at low concentrations
3Measurement precision
If other detection methods are used, then homocysteine detection is possible, but complex procedures and high cost make them unsuitable for clinical applications
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables self-service detection where the copper(II) complex probe directly binds to homocysteine in physiological samples and produces a measurable fluorescent signal without requiring complex sample preparation, separation, or multiple processing steps. The probe performs both recognition and detection functions in a single straightforward procedure, eliminating the need for complex analytical workflows
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a simple, inexpensive copper(II) complex probe that can be used as a disposable reagent for rapid detection. The probe does not require expensive instrumentation or complex procedures, making it suitable for point-of-care and clinical applications where simplicity and cost-effectiveness are critical
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The copper complex allows for selective and sensitive detection of homocysteine with a lower limit of detection (LOD) of 8 to 15 μM, enabling effective detection in biological samples without the need for organic solvents, suitable for clinical applications.
Implementation Method 1
The fluorimetric detection of homocysteine by Formula-B is not hindered by other amino acids and glutathione
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses compounds of Formula-A and its copper complex of general Formula-B. The compound of general Formula-B is used in the selective detection of homocysteine in aqueous medium at physiological pH without any interference from other challenging amino acids and thiols. Using compounds of general Formula-B, specific detection of homocysteine under UV light in aqueous solution is also possible by the naked eyes.