Dual signal amplification by an “on-command” pure DNA hydrogel encapsulating HRP for colorimetric detection of ochratoxin A

Abstract

A pure DNA hydrogel, consisting of two kinds of Y-scaffold nucleic acid subunits and the aptamer domain of ochratoxin A, undergoes a switchable gel-to-sol transition in the presence of ochratoxin A. The target molecule stimulated the disassembly of the DNA hydrogel to release the encapsulated HRP, which triggered the reaction of H₂O₂ and ABTS for dual signal amplification of colorimetric detection.