Peroxidase-like Activity of Metal–Organic Framework [Cu(PDA)(DMF)] and Its Application for Colorimetric Detection of Dopamine

A metal–organic framework (MOF) [Cu­(PDA)­(DMF)] was synthesized under mild mixed solvothermal conditions. It is constructed by 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxylic acid (H2PDA) and Cu2+ ions. The complex exhibits high peroxidase-like activity and can catalytically oxidize the colorless substrate 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine to a blue product in the presence of H2O2. However, the peroxidase-like activity of [Cu­(PDA)­(DMF)] can be potently inhibited in the presence of dopamine. Based on this phenomenon, the colorimetric detection of dopamine was demonstrated with good selectivity and high sensitivity. [Cu­(PDA)­(DMF)] showed good stability and robust catalytic activity, which has been employed in the detection of dopamine in human urine and pharmaceutical samples.