Multiplex SERS-based lateral flow assay for one-step simultaneous detection of neomycin and lincomycin in milk

Neomycin and lincomycin are widely used in the treatment of infections illnesses. However, the irrational and inappropriate of antibiotics contributes to threaten human health seriously. We developed a rapid and multiple detection strategy for trace amounts of neomycin (NEO) and lincomycin (LIN) in milk using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)-based lateral flow assay (LFA). The method used two SERS immunoprobes (a probe for NEO and a probe for LIN) were mixed and applied to the conjugate pad, and then, the NEO-OVA and LIN-OVA were mixed and coated on LFA as the only test line. Simultaneous quantitative detection of NEO and LIN was achieved by detecting the Raman intensity of captured immunoprobes on test line using a Raman spectrometer. Under optimized condition, NEO and LIN could be detected as low as 0.33 pg/mL and 0.29 pg/mL in 15 min with a sample volume of 100 μL. The practicality of the LFA in milk sample was also validated. The method is highly sensitive, accurate, and effective. It has a good chance to be employed for multiple antibiotics detection in food products.