Upconverting Nanoparticle Aptamer Complex for Mycotoxin Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting mycotoxins like Ochratoxin A in food samples are complex, time-consuming, costly, and prone to matrix effects from food by-products, leading to inaccurate results and high costs, especially when using methods like HPLC, ELISA, and FRET-based biosensors.
Innovation Solution
A detection complex using upconverting nanoparticles excited by near-infrared light and target material-specific aptamer-quencher pairs connected via a linker, which enables luminescence resonance energy transfer for accurate quantification of mycotoxins, reducing matrix interference and simplifying the detection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If HPLC is used for detection, then sensitivity is high, but the detection process is complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex sample preparation steps (extraction, washing, column chromatography) from the detection process while maintaining high sensitivity through the use of upconverting nanoparticles that provide signal amplification, thus achieving simple homogeneous detection without sacrificing detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameters by using upconverting nanoparticles excited by near-infrared light instead of traditional fluorescent markers, enabling detection in a homogeneous state without requiring complex separation processes, thereby simplifying the overall detection workflow while maintaining sensitivity
2Device complexity
If ELISA is used for detection, then the process is simpler, but cross-reactivity causes poor accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses aptamers as molecular copies or alternatives to antibodies, providing similar binding functionality without the cross-reactivity problems inherent in antibody-based ELISA methods, thus maintaining simplicity while improving accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the recognition element from antibodies to aptamers, fundamentally altering the detection mechanism to eliminate cross-reactivity issues while maintaining the simplicity of the immunoassay format through homogeneous detection
3Ease of operation
If FRET-based biosensors are used, then homogeneous detection is achieved, but UV or visible light damages biomolecules and causes non-specific signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the excitation wavelength parameter from UV or visible light to near-infrared light, which does not damage biomolecules and reduces non-specific signals from matrix effects, while maintaining homogeneous detection capability through the upconverting nanoparticle system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces upconverting nanoparticles as an intermediary that converts near-infrared light to visible light emission, enabling homogeneous detection without directly exposing biomolecules to damaging UV or visible light, thus protecting them from damage while maintaining detection functionality
4Reliability
If traditional methods are used, then detection is possible, but matrix effects from food by-products cause inhomogeneous detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the excitation parameter to near-infrared light, which penetrates through matrix effects from food by-products without causing non-specific signals, enabling homogeneous detection across various food sample types while maintaining reliable detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of complex food matrices into a benefit by using near-infrared excitation that is insensitive to matrix effects, allowing direct homogeneous detection in complex food samples without requiring extensive sample preparation to remove interfering substances
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
This approach allows for homogeneous, sensitive, and cost-effective detection of mycotoxins by attenuating the luminescent signal of upconverting nanoparticles, providing accurate quantification and reducing analysis time, while being compatible with various food samples.
Implementation Method 1
upconverting nanoparticles excited by a near infrared (NIR) light source
Implementation Method 2
target material specific aptamer-quencher, connected through a linker with the upconverting nanoparticles
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a complex for detecting a target material comprising upconverting nanoparticles; and at least one target material specific aptamer-quencher, connected through a linker with the upconverting nanoparticles, a method of preparing the same, a kit for detecting a target material comprising the same, and a method of detecting a target material using the same.According to the present disclosure, different target materials in samples can be quantified or detected accurately based on luminescence resonance energy transfer (LRET) of the upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) excited by a near infrared (NIR) light source.