Nano-biosensor based on reduced graphene oxide and gold nanoparticles, for detection of phenylketonuria-associated DNA mutation

Phenylketonuria (PKU)-associated DNA mutation in newborn children can be harmful to his health and early detection is the best way to inhibit consequences. A novel electrochemical nano-biosensor was developed for PKU detection, based on signal amplification using nanomaterials, e.g. gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) decorated on the reduced graphene oxide sheet on the screen-printed carbon electrode. The fabrication steps were checked by field emission scanning electron microscope imaging as well as cyclic voltammetry analysis. The specific alkanethiol single-stranded DNA probes were attached by self-assembly methodology on the AuNPs surface and Oracet blue was used as an intercalating electrochemical label. The results showed the detection limit of 21.3 fM and the dynamic range of 80–1200 fM. Moreover, the selectivity results represented a great specificity of the nano-biosensor for its specific target DNA oligo versus other non-specific sequences. The real sample simulation was performed successfully with almost no difference than a synthetic buffer solution environment.