Development of a dual-recognition strategy for the aflatoxin B1 detection based on a hybrid of aptamer-MIP using a Cu2O NCs/GCE

The importance of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) detection in food safety and human health has increased the demand for the design of a highly sensitive and reliable tool for its determination. In the present study, we propose a new biological biodevice for accurate and cost-effective AFB1 measurement. The designed electrochemical biodevice is based on a hybrid of molecular imprinting polymer (MIP) and aptamer (Apt) on a glassy carbon electrode modified by Cu2O nanocubes (Cu2O NCs/GCE). From the evaluation of the obtained calibration curve, the linear range and detection limit were calculated as 50.0 pg L−1 to 3.5 ng L−1 and 3.5 to 40.0 ng L−1 and 12.0 pg L−1, respectively. The high performance of the proposed sensor can be attributed to the synergistic effect between MIP and Apt. In addition, the application of Cu2O NCs increases the loading of aptamer by increasing the surface-to-volume ratio, which has been used as a platform in the dual MIP-Apt strategy for the first time. The advantages of the proposed sensor include novelty, high selectivity, portability, and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, the practical efficiency of the designed biosensor in milk as the real sample was evaluated appropriately. We hope that this proposed strategy can be effective in increasing food safety and maintaining human health. In addition, it is an effective step in developing the application of various nanocubes in designing sensors with appropriate capabilities.