Gold Nanorod-Based Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for the Rapid and Selective Detection of Aconitine in Various Complex Matrices

Phytotoxins, such as aconitine, have a dual function of bioactivity and toxicity, which intentionally or unintentionally trigger the food poisoning associated with them. The detection of toxins and poisons in complex matrices is challenging, and rapid accurate characterization is a prerequisite for tracing the source of poisoning and choosing the correct treatment. In this study, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and solvent extraction were used to detect aconitine (AC) in various complex matrices using gold nanorod substrates. The experimental results demonstrated that ether efficiently extracted AC from soy sauce as an example complex matrix. When performed using a handheld Raman spectrometer, the entire detection process was completed in 5s, and the detection limit was 1 ppm. This rapid, simple, and effective method enables sensitive detection of toxicants in various complex matrices and has potential applications in emergency response and public safety.