An efficient hypochlorous acid fluorescence imaging strategy based on toehold-mediated strand displacement for distinguishing cancer cells from normal cells
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Cancer is among the most significant diseases endangering global public health. Early detection has been demonstrated to markedly improve prognoses and increase cure rates. Hypochlorous acid (HClO) is a pivotal reactive oxygen species, frequently manifesting elevated levels in cancer cells. Herein, a highly sensitive, highly specific, and efficient HClO detection method was established based on the toehold-mediated strand displacement (TMSD). This method employs a duplex complex (TN) formed from three single-stranded DNAs to carry a fluorescent group (FAM), and introduces a hairpin DNA (HP) with a phosphorothioate (PS)-modified site for specific recognition of HClO. Under the action of HClO, the short fragment bearing FAM group is eventually released from TN, resulting in a significant increase in the system fluorescence. After optimization, the method achieves excellent HClO detection performance, with a detection range of 0.01-7 µM (LOD: 12.9 nM). Analysis of real samples, including tap water, serum and cell lysate, also confirms its good stability and accuracy. Most importantly, the method enables imaging of intracellular HClO, thereby effectively distinguishing cancer cells from normal cells. Overall, this method offers various advantages, including excellent detection performance, fast response times, ease of use, and readily available materials, making it promising for application in early diagnosis of cancer.
Source: RSC Advances
DOI: 10.1039/d6ra08265c
Institutions: Xinxiang Central Hospital, Central South University
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,042
OpenAlex ID: W7224919623