CB[7]-mediated signal amplification approach for sensitive surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy

Cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) has received increasing attention because of its unique structure and multiple recognition properties. To improve the sensitivity of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors, we designed a novel strategy in which caspase-3 serves as the model analyte and CB[7]-modified AuNPs (CB[7]-AuNPs) act as the intermedium. The substrate peptides can be cleaved and replaced with a new N-terminal Phe residue in presence of caspase-3. The CB[7]-AuNPs combine with the N-terminal Phe on the gold chip surface through incorporating the side chain within the nonpolar CB[7] cavity and chelating the N-terminal ammonium group with CB[7] carbonyl oxygen. Then CB[7]-AuNPs integrate with short peptide-modified AuNPs containing Phe at the N-terminal of the peptide. SPR signals are significantly improved through the layer-by-layer assembly of AuNPs. The well-designed sensing platform allows the detection of caspase-3 in a linear range from 10fg/mL to 103fg/mL with a detection limit of 2.2 fg/mL. Given its high specificity and desirable sensitivity, this CB[7]-assisted SPR method may be a useful tool for the assay of caspase-3 in the future. This work may also afford a new model to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of SPR biosensors in other protein detection experiments and disease diagnosis. •The host-guest recognition mediated AuNPs assembly.•SPR signals are improved through the layer-by-layer assembly of AuNPs.•The detection limit of caspase-3 can be achieved as low as 2.2 fg/mL.