Core–shell molecularly imprinted polymer sensor for enrofloxacin determination in various matrices: a novel, sustainable One Health analytical strategy

Abstract

Antibiotics are essential in treating infectious diseases in both humans and animals, and they are also utilized to enhance animal growth. However, their widespread use has led to significant environmental concerns. After administration of antibiotics, a substantial portion of them is excreted by animals, contaminating various environmental compartments. This problem is examined from the One Health perspective which seeks to balance human, animal, and environmental health for the benefit of global well-being. Enrofloxacin (ENR) is a commonly used antibiotic in veterinary medicine. Despite its efficacy in animal health, ENR is not approved for human use due to its associated toxicities. To address ENR detection, a sensor built upon a core–shell molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was created for the determination and testing of ENR in different matrices. Offering a miniaturized and reproducible tool for determining antibiotic residues in biological and environmental samples helps in revolutionizing the way we monitor and control antibiotic usage and contamination in various settings. The fabricated sensor demonstrated an optimum response time and functioned effectively across the pH range of 2.0 to 5.0. The potential profile displayed a linear correlation within a varying concentration spectrum of 1.0 × 10⁻⁵ M to 1.0 × 10⁻² M characterized by a slope of 57.21 mV per decade. Furthermore, a comprehensive assessment of the environmental sustainability of the developed method was carried out using the Analytical Greenness calculator, AGREE algorithm. Lastly, an examination of the method's level of environmental friendliness was pursued using the newly developed RGB12 model to evaluate its “whiteness” level.