Issue 6, 2024

Green synthesis of iron-doped graphene quantum dots: an efficient nanozyme for glucose sensing

Abstract

Single-atom nanozymes with well-defined atomic structures and electronic coordination environments can effectively mimic the functions of natural enzymes. However, the costly and intricate preparation processes have hindered further exploration and application of these single-atom nanozymes. In this study, we presented a synthesis technique for creating Fe–N central single-atom doped graphene quantum dot (FeN/GQDs) nanozymes using a one-step solvothermal process, where individual iron atoms form strong bonds with graphene quantum dots through nitrogen coordination. Unlike previous studies, this method significantly simplifies the synthesis conditions for single-atom nanozymes, eliminating the need for high temperatures and employing environmentally friendly precursors derived from pineapple (ananas comosus) leaves. The resulting FeN/GQDs exhibited peroxidase-like catalytic activity and kinetics comparable to that of natural enzymes, efficiently converting H2O2 into hydroxyl radical species. Leveraging their excellent peroxide-like activity, FeN/GQDs nanozymes have been successfully applied to construct a colorimetric biosensor system characterized by remarkably high sensitivity for glucose detection. This achievement demonstrated a promising approach to designing single-atom nanozymes with both facile synthesis procedures and high catalytic activity, offering potential applications in wearable sensors and personalized health monitoring.

Graphical abstract: Green synthesis of iron-doped graphene quantum dots: an efficient nanozyme for glucose sensing

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Communication
Submitted
15 јан. 2024
Accepted
22 мар. 2024
First published
23 мар. 2024

Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 976-989

Green synthesis of iron-doped graphene quantum dots: an efficient nanozyme for glucose sensing

X. Li, G. Lin, L. Zhou, O. Prosser, M. H. Malakooti and M. Zhang, Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, 9, 976 DOI: 10.1039/D4NH00024B

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