Enhancing dengue DNA biorecognition through surface modification of nanostructured porous surfaces with hybridization fluorescent probes

A cost-effective and straightforward biorecognition platform based on an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane has been developed to detect fluorescent-tagged complementary target DNA. This platform utilizes a cross-linked DNA probe bearing a triazole compound functionalized on the surface of the AAO membrane. The proposed structure of the as-synthesized triazole compound is supported by proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. Additionally, the Fourier-transform infrared spectrum of the modified AAO membrane surface reveals emerging peaks corresponding to the C-H stretching of the aromatic methyl group of the triazole compounds. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy survey scan showed carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and silicon traces on the surface of the silanized AAO membrane. The performance of the DNA sensor array was validated using fluorescence confocal microscopy. Images obtained through confocal microscopy confirm the successful hybridization of fluorescent-tagged complementary target DNA on the AAO membrane biosensor, with a remarkable lowest detection limit of 0.029 nM. In conclusion, the as-synthesized triazole compounds are an alternative cross-linker with high efficiency for DNA detection.