A dual channel optical sensor for biliverdin and bilirubin using glutathione capped copper nanoclusters

Abstract

A simple, highly selective and cost-effective colorimetric as well as fluorimetric sensor for the bile pigments, biliverdin (BVD) and bilirubin (BLR) has been developed using glutathione stabilized copper nanoclusters (GSH-CuNCs). Sensing has been achieved via the formation of a non-fluorescent ground state complex between the nanoprobe and analytes. Different sensor parameters were optimized and under these conditions, highly sensitive determination of BVD/BLR in wide linear ranges has been obtained in a dual responsive manner. Practical utility of the developed sensor has also been demonstrated in synthetic physiological fluids.