Work

A grinding-free synthesis strategy of persistent luminescence nanoprobes with enhanced optical performance for PSA detection

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Persistent luminescent nanoparticles (PLNPs), particularly chromium-doped zinc gallate (ZnGa2O4:Cr3+) (ZGO NPs), provide a radically innovative strategy to push the detection limits of ELISA-based antigen detection into ultralow concentration regimes previously inaccessible. In contrast to our previous work, this study introduces a simpler process for obtaining and using ZGO NPs, by avoiding previous need for grinding and fractionation steps, thereby achieving 100% yield while preserving exceptional optical properties. This approach drastically reduces both preparation time, experimental complexity and equipment. This is particularly useful for a future application of this type of material (particularly for a commercial use), and represents a paradigm shift in the use of persistent luminescence (PersL) materials for biodetection. The newly prepared ZGO were employed in a non-functionalized form, as well as functionalized with detection antibodies (ZGO-AbD) or via an avidin–biotin system, offering unparalleled flexibility for diverse analytical needs. Signal amplification using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), either generated in situ or added exogenously, produced an enhancement of persistent luminescence, allowing improving assay sensitivity. Integration into both sandwich and direct ELISA formats enables ultrasensitive detection of antigens, such as rabbit immunoglobulin G (IgG) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), achieving detection limits of 2.85 pg. mL-1 and 3.14 pg. mL-1 respectively, which represent values far below those obtained using commercial kits. Moreover, the coefficient of variation was consistently found to be inferior to 15%, confirming the robustness and reproducibility of the assay. Importantly, these systems exhibited remarkable robustness in complex biological media, including undiluted human serum. This work establishes a new fast-prepared nanomaterial for ultrasensitive, versatile, and clinically applicable antigen detection in vitro.

Source: Chemical Engineering Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2026.181741

Authors: Zied Ferjaoui, Ernestine Gaillard, Daniel Scherman, Nathalie Mignet, Cyrille Richard

Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Inserm, Université Paris Cité, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé

Language: English

Topic: Biosensors and Analytical Detection

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,830

Funder: Agence Nationale de la Recherche