Electrochemical and colorimetric dual-signal detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B based on AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles loaded Fe-N-C single atom nanocomposite

Sensitive detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) is of importance for preventing food poisoning from threatening human health. In this work, an electrochemical and colorimetric dual-signal detection assay of SEB was developed. The probe (Ab2/AuPt@Fe-N-C) was bound to SEB captured by Ab1, where the Ab2/AuPt@Fe-N-C triggered methylene blue degradation and resulted in the decrease of electrochemical signal. Furthermore, the probe catalyzed the oxidation of 3,3’,5,5’-tetramethyl biphenyl to generate a colorimetric absorbance at 652 nm. Once the target was captured and formed a sandwich-like complex, the color changed from colorless to blue. SEB detection by colorimetric and electrochemical methods showed a linear relationship in the concentration ranges of 0.000 2–10.000 0 and 0.000 5–10.000 0 ng/mL, with limits of detection of 0.066 7 and 0.167 0 pg/mL, respectively. The dual-signal biosensor was successfully used to detect SEB in milk and water samples, which has great potential in toxin detection in food and the environment. [Display omitted] •An electrochemical and colorimetric dual-signal biosensor for Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) was designed.•The decreased electrochemical signal caused by methylene blue degradation was proportionate to increased concentration of SEB.•The colorimetric signal was based on catalytic activity of AuPt@Fe-N-C by oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyl biphenyl.•The proposed biosensor showed ultrasensitivity, ideal repeatability, and desirable stability.