Electrospinning ZnS:Ni quantum dots into carbon nanofibrous structure as a base for the electrochemical aptasensor for detection of trypsin

Abstract

Herein, ZnS:Ni quantum dots embedded within carbon nanofibers (ZnS:Ni/CNFs) are synthesized via a simple electrospinning technology with a subsequent carbonization process and proposed for biosensing purposes. This hybrid material was applied as a substrate for aptamer immobilization aiming at Trypsin sensing. It is revealed that the electrochemical Trypsin aptasensor developed based on the novel ZnS:Ni/CNFs composite exhibited superior analysis performance to previously reported Trypsin aptasensor, such as a wide linear range from 0.1 fg mL⁻¹ to 600 ng mL⁻¹ and low detection limit of 0.03 fg mL⁻¹ (S/N = 3), excellent reproducibility and selectivity. In addition, apt/ ZnS:Ni CNFs/GCE can detect Trypsin present in human serum samples. This work can inspire researchers to build functional hybrid nanomaterials based on nanofibers for the purpose of generating electrochemical biosensors. Additionally, the implementation of the suggested platform has the potential to be highly beneficial in future studies and extends their applications in biosensors and health monitoring.