A novel sandwich-type photoelectrochemical sensor for SCCA detection based on Ag2S-sensitized BiOI matrix and AucorePdshell nanoflower label for signal amplification

Abstract

A novel sandwich-type photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor for SCCA detection, based on a Ag₂S-sensitized BiOI matrix and a Au_corePd_shell (Au_cPd_s) nanoflower label for signal amplification, was constructed for the ultrasensitive detection of the squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA). By an in situ growth method, Ag₂S was modified on the electrode coated with BiOI to obtain the BiOI/Ag₂S composite. The BiOI/Ag₂S matrix possesses an excellent photocurrent signal that is 90 times that of pure BiOI. The core–shell nanoflower-structured Au_cPd_s was utilized as a label to anchor secondary antibodies (Au_cPd_s@Ab₂) to construct the ultrasensitive PEC sensor. The Au_cPd_s nanoflower can compete with the BiOI/Ag₂S matrix for the absorption of visible-light to inhibit the electron transfer and then weaken the photocurrent signal of the BiOI/Ag₂S matrix. After modification with the Au_cPd_s@Ab₂ conjugate, the PEC signal was further reduced due to the efficient energy transfer process between the BiOI/Ag₂S matrix and Au_cPd_s. Based on the above two influencing factors, the signal amplification strategy was fulfilled. Moreover, on the basis of specific recognition between antigen and antibody, an ultrasensitive PEC sensor for SCCA detection was successfully fabricated. On increasing the logarithm of the SCCA concentration in the range from 0.01 pg mL⁻¹ to 100 ng mL⁻¹, the photocurrent signals were linearly reduced and the detection limit was 1.6 fg mL⁻¹. The fabricated sandwich-type PEC sensor has excellent sensitivity and distinguished stability, which are indicative of promising applications in clinical diagnoses, sensors and PEC analysis.