A dual-model immobilization-free photoelectrochemical/visual colorimetric bioanalysis based on microemulsion self-assemblies mediated multifunctional signal amplification strategy.

Herein, a novel silver ion-loaded gold microemulsion assemblies (Au/Ag MAs) mediated multifunctional signal amplification strategy was proposed to construct a sensitive immobilization-free photoelectrochemical (PEC)/colorimetric biosensor for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) detection. Through the sandwiched reaction among CEA, the CEA aptamer (DNA1) loaded on the Au nanoparticles (NPs) functionalized iron oxide (FeO) nanospheres and another CEA aptamer (DNA2) immobilized on Au/Ag MAs, a complex is formed and acquired by magnetic separation. Then, Au/Ag MAs of the complex are disassembled into Au NPs and Ag ions driven by an acetone response, and the obtained demulsification solution is transferred to the cadmium sulfide/cadmium telluride (CdS/CdTe) photoactive composites modified electrode. Based on the multiple inhibition functions (blocking effect of oleylamine; energy transfer effect of Au NPs; and electron snatching effect of Ag), the photocurrent of the electrode decreases obviously, resulting in the ultrasensitive detection of CEA (a detection limit of 16 fg mL). Interestingly, the ion-exchange reactions between CdS/CdTe composites and Ag ions generate silver sulfide/silver telluride (AgS/AgTe) composites, and a color change of composites can be distinguished directly, leading to a quick visual detection of CEA. Compared with the traditional single-modal assay for CEA, such dual-modal PEC/colorimetric assay is a more accurate and reliable due to different mechanisms and independent signal conversion. This work will offer a new perspective for the applications of various self-assemblies in PEC bioanalysis.