A dense SERS substrate of the AgNPs@GO compound film for detecting homocysteine molecules

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of a highly sensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor for detecting homocysteine (Hcy) molecules. The Hcy sensor was created by depositing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) onto the surface of graphene oxide (GO) film to form a dense AgNPs@GO composite film. The AgNPs on the composite film interacted with sulfur atoms (S) of Hcy molecules to form Ag–S bonds, which boosted the chemisorption of Hcy molecules and enabled them to be specifically recognized. The SERS sensor exhibited a maximum enhancement factor of up to 1.1 × 10⁴, with a reliable linear response range from 1 to 60 ng mL⁻¹. The limit of detection (LOD) for Hcy molecules was as low as 1.1 × 10⁻⁹ M. Moreover, Hcy molecules were successfully distinguished in a mixed solution of γ-aminobutyric acid and Hcy molecules. In this study, a simple preparation process of SERS substrate and a novel detection method for Hcy molecules provided a new pathway for the rapid and effective detection of Hcy molecules in the food and biomedicine fields.