Toward single-metal-ion sensing by Förster resonance energy transfer.
Here we describe progress toward our objective of detecting single nonfluorescent hydrated metal ions. Single-ion detection represents detection and spectroscopy at the ultimate sensitivity level of approximately 1.6 x 10(-24) M. Achieving this goal would provide a breakthrough in analytical science and allow much more detailed insight into sensor-ion interaction than that available with conventional bulk detection methods. We combine recent advances in confocal microscopy with the sensitivity and the noninvasive nature of fluorescence by analyzing Förster resonance energy transfer between sensor fluorophores and transition metal ions.
Sutter
Jens U
JU
Photophysics Group, Department of Physics, John Anderson Bldg., University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0NG, Scotland, UK. jens.sutter@strath.ac.uk
Macmillan
Alexander M
AM
Birch
David J S
DJ
Rolinski
Olaf J
OJ
D004735:Energy Transfer; D031541:Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes / Q000737:chemistry; D007477:Ions; D008027:Light; D008670:Metals / Q000737:chemistry*; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal / Q000379:methods; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000379:methods; D045663:Quantum Dots; D013050:Spectrometry, Fluorescence / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D013997:Time Factors
D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D007477:Ions; D008670:Metals