Breakthrough in Neonicotinoid Insecticides Detection

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Shandong University of Technology have successfully developed a new method for detecting neonicotinoid insecticides, which are the largest category of insecticides globally, with sales exceeding $3 billion in recent years. Using the graphene oxide-systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (GO-SELEX) aptamer screening method, the team obtained two aptamers specifically recognizing dinotefuran and nitenpyram, respectively. This innovative approach enables the detection of neonicotinoid residues in the environment and assesses their environmental risks, contributing to sustainable management and use of these insecticides.

Key Takeaways:

  • The researchers have developed a new method for detecting neonicotinoid insecticides, using the GO-SELEX aptamer screening method.
  • The aptamers specifically recognize dinotefuran and nitenpyram, allowing for simultaneous determination of these chemicals.
  • The limits of detection (LODs) for dinotefuran and nitenpyram are as low as 5.37 and 1.95 pg mL, respectively.
  • The new method involves the design of a target-induced "Incantation of the Golden Hoop" DNA structure, leveraging methylene blue and epirubicin as electrochemical indicators.
  • Exonuclease III-assisted cyclic signal amplification is used to amplify the signal, enabling the detection of neonicotinoid residues.
  • The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Analytical Chemistry.
  • The study is a collaborative effort involving researchers from Shandong University of Technology, including Rui Xu, Jingcheng Huang, and Lingjun Geng.

Statistics:

  • Global sales of neonicotinoid insecticides exceed $3 billion in recent years.
  • The LODs for dinotefuran and nitenpyram are 5.37 pg mL and 1.95 pg mL, respectively.
  • The specific affinities of the aptamers for dinotefuran and nitenpyram are 48.03 nM and 25.20 nM, respectively.
  • The research involved the collaboration of multiple researchers, including Rui Xu and Jingcheng Huang.

Sources:

  • Screening of Aptamers for Typical Neonicotinoid Insecticides and A Homogeneous Strategy for Target-Induced "Incantation of the Golden Hoop" DNA Structure, published in Analytical Chemistry, 2025.
  • Rui Xu, et al., "Screening of Aptamers for Typical Neonicotinoid Insecticides and A Homogeneous Strategy for Target-Induced 'Incantation of the Golden Hoop' DNA Structure", Analytical Chemistry, 2025.
  • Amer Chemical Soc, 1155 16TH St, NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA (publisher contact information for Analytical Chemistry).