Copper nanocluster-based fluorescence enhanced determination of d-penicillamine

Taking advantage of the compelling properties of d -penicillamine ( d -PA) combined with copper, a method for the sensitive and selective determination of d -PA was established using copper nanocluster (Cu NC)-based fluorescence enhancement. d -PA molecules containing a thiol compound showed a strong tendency to combine with the surface of Cu NCs, causing the re-dispersion of nanoclusters and therefore fluorescence intensity was enhanced. Fluorescence enhancement efficiency of Cu NCs induced by d -PA was linear, with the d -PA concentration varying from 0.6–30 μg ml −1 (R 2 = 0.9952) and with a detection limit of 0.54 μg ml −1 . d -PA content in human urine samples was detected with recoveries of 104.8–112.99%. Fluorescence-enhanced determination of d -PA using Cu NCs was established for the first time and this rapid, easy and sensitive method should attract much attention for this application.