Nanomolar Level Detection of Uric Acid in Blood Serum and Pest-Infested Grain Samples by an Amphiphilic Probe

A pyrene based amphiphilic receptor has been utilized in the nanomolar detection of uric acid at physiological pH in water. The compound shows a unique concentration-dependent modulation in optical response toward uric acid. In intramolecular/static excimer form (low concentration range), it displays a ratiometric response, while a "turn-off" sensing is observed specifically in the presence of intermolecular/dynamic excimer (high concentration range). The present protocol is then employed for the estimation of uric acid in blood serum samples of healthy individuals. Bland-Altman analysis in comparison to clinically approved uricase assay indicated the high accuracy of the present method. Additionally, the extent of insect infestation in stored grain samples was determined by measuring the uric acid content of their aqueous extracts. Low-cost color strips were developed for on-site detection of uric acid without involving any sophisticated instrument or trained personnel.