Aptamer-functionalized aggregation-induced emission micelles for integrated detection and photodegradation of lipopolysaccharides

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) contamination in biopharmaceuticals poses severe clinical risks, yet its detection and removal remain enduring challenges. Conventional detection methods are frequently hindered by low endotoxin recovery. Established clearance techniques often compromise the integrity of sensitive biologics or introduce secondary contaminants. To overcome these constraints, we developed an integrated platform for simultaneous LPS detection and removal. This system employs aptamer-conjugated micelles that encapsulate an aggregation-induced emission photosensitizer with high reactive oxygen species quantum yield. The surface aptamers facilitate specific LPS capture, followed by efficient light-triggered oxidative degradation. The capture-first design concentrates LPS near the photosensitizer-loaded core to maximize degradation efficiency. When validated in endotoxin-contaminated insulin solutions, the platform markedly reduced the ELISA-detectable LPS signal under the tested conditions, without measurably impairing insulin-induced glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes in this preliminary assay. This biocompatible strategy bridges the gap between LPS monitoring and safe decontamination.