Bio-inspired colorimetric detection of Hg2+ and Pb2+ heavy metal ions using Au nanoparticles

Heavy metal ions are highly toxic species which can cause long-term damage to biological systems. These species are known to disrupt biological events at the cellular level, cause significant oxidative damage, and are carcinogens. The production of simple, in-field detection methods that are highly sensitive for these cations is highly desirable in response to global pollution. In that regard, bio-inspired colorimetric sensing systems have been developed to detect Hg²⁺ and Pb²⁺, and other cations, down to nmol L⁻¹ concentrations. The benefits of these systems, which are reviewed herein, include cost-effective production, facile usage, and a visual color change for the detection method. Such advantages are significant positive steps for heavy metal ion detection, especially in regions where sophisticated laboratory studies are prohibited. Figure Biological-based colorimetric detection of heavy metal cations. The materials on the left are independent Au nanoparticles in solution, functionalized with heavy metal binding biomolecules, which, upon metal addition, aggregate to evolve a detectable solution color change.

Marc R. KnechtEmail: