The detection and inhibition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) is an important task for water quality monitoring and food hygiene. Silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) have been known for the ability for sterilization while cysteine has also been known as the nutrient of E. coli. In this study, we developed a facile strategy for rapid detection and inhibition of E. coli with the uses of cysteine-conjugated gold nanoclusters (Cys-AgNCs). After incubation with E.coli, the Cys-AgNCs were metabolized by E.coli in order to maintain their growth. After the metabolism of Cys-AgNCs inside the E.coli, the fluorescence intensity of Cys-AgNCs was decreased and then the metabolic kinetics of Cys-AgNCs by E. coli was systematically simulated based on the change of fluorescence intensity of Cys-AgNCs. Moreover, after the metabolism of cysteine on Cys-AgNCs by E. coli, significant intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was induced by AgNCs to kill E. coli. Our work provides a potential approach for bacteria detection and inhibition.<br/>

Cysteine conjugated silver nanoclusters for the detection and inhibition of <i>Escherichia coli</i>

2019 Fall National Meeting

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Cysteine conjugated silver nanoclusters for the detection and inhibition of Escherichia coli