Visualization and quantitative detection of foodborne Salmonella Typhimurium by functionalizing cysteamine (CS) stabilized gold nanoparticles (CS-AuNPs@phage)

Background: Salmonella, is one of the most important pathogens causing foodborne illnesses worldwide. The early detection of Salmonella is essential to minimize the risk. Herein, the nanoprobe (CS-AuNPs@phage-T156) for Salmonella was obtained by functionalizing cysteamine (CS) stabilized gold nanoparticles (CS-AuNPs) with phage T156. Results: In the presence of target Salmonella, the CS-AuNPs@phage-T156 specifically recognized and adsorbed on the surface of Salmonella, then induced the aggregation of gold nanoparticles and the color changes from red to purple, which enabled visual detection. The concentration of Salmonella was quantified by the absorption ratio (A₆₈₀/A₅₂₆), with a wide linear range from 1.2 × 10¹ CFU/mL to 1.2 × 10⁶ CFU/mL. Under the optimal experimental conditions, this assay possessed a potent selectivity characteristic quickly toward Salmonella, with a detection limit of 12 CFU/mL. Conclusion: This simple and rapid detection method is expected to provides a novel identification element for the detection of Salmonella by intuitive visualization judgment and quantitative analysis.