A photoluminescence biosensor for the detection of N -acyl homoserine lactone using cysteamine functionalized ZnO nanoparticles for the early diagnosis of urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a recurrent infection that requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Conventional urinalysis methods are laborious and time-consuming, and lack sensitivity and specificity. In this context, photoluminescence (PL)-based biosensors have gained more attention due to their fast response time, and enhanced sensitivity and specificity. In relation to this, a PL-based biosensor was developed using ZnO nanoparticles obtained via a microwave-assisted process functionalized with cysteamine (ZnO-Cys) to detect the quorum sensing signalling molecules of Gram-negative bacteria, N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs). These AHLs are involved in bacterial communication and are responsible for activating virulence and pathogenicity. Biosensing measurements based on PL intensity variations corresponding to the O₂ acceptor defect level of ZnO with reference to ZnO-Cys were considered. A maximum sensitivity of 97% was achieved in the detection of AHL. The linear detection range of the developed biosensor was 10-120 nM in artificial urine media (AUM). The effect of pH on the sensitivity of the biosensor in AUM was also investigated and reported. The developed sensor was validated using the AHLs produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MCC3101) in real-time analysis, which further confirmed the overall specificity and sensitivity.