Rapid and simple fluorescent detection of chlorogenic acid in Aidi injection using aggregation-induced emission (AIE) nanoclusters.

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a key component in Aidi injection, known for its anti-cancer properties and ability to reduce toxicity. Therefore, accurate detection of CGA levels in Aidi injection is essential for monitoring therapeutic efficacy and minimizing adverse effects. This study presents a rapid and simple fluorescent method for detecting CGA in Aidi injection using aggregation-induced emission (AIE) nanoclusters, i.e. D(-)-penicillamine (DPA)-capped bimetallic gold/copper nanoclusters (DPA-Au/CuNCs). Upon the addition of CGA, the aggregation state of DPA-Au/CuNCs was disrupted through hydrogen bond formation and ligand exchange, leading to fluorescence quenching. The prepared DPA-Au/CuNCs exhibited a rapid response time of 0.5 min, and demonstrated good sensitivity for CGA, with a limit of detection of 3.75 μg/mL, and a linear detection range of 12.5-200 μg/mL. This method was successfully applied for the analysis of CGA in Aidi injection and plasma with good recovery rates and minimal matrix effect, highlighting its potential for the applications in pharmaceutical products and clinical samples.