Reaction analysis on Yb3+ and DNA based on quantum dots: The design of a fluorescent reversible off–on mode

Even though various strategies have reported for DNA detection, development of a simple, time-saving and specific fluorescent sensing platform still remains a desired goal. In this work, a quantum dots (QDs) based fluorescent reversible “off–on” mode was developed for sensitively recognition of herring sperm DNA (hsDNA). Firstly, in the “turn off” stage, the fluorescence of glutathione (GSH) capped CdTe QDs could be effectively quenched by ytterbium ion (Yb 3+ ) was due to the occurrence of the electron transfer between Yb 3+ and the photoexcited QDs. And then, in the following “turn on” stage, with the effective binding reaction of Yb 3+ to hsDNA, the fluorescence intensity of GSH-capped CdTe QDs enhanced. Under the optimal conditions, the linear range of fluorescence versus the concentration of hsDNA was 0.010–12   μg/mL, and the detection limit was 3.033   ng/mL. In addition, the reaction mechanism among GSH-capped CdTe QDs, Yb 3+ and hsDNA were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy, UV–vis spectrophotometry, fluorescence lifetime measurement and viscosity measurements. This analytical fluorescent reversible “off–on” pattern offered a way with good sensitivity and selectivity for the detection of hsDNA.