Optimization of Synthesis and Modification of ZnSe/ZnS Quantum Dots for Fluorescence Detection of Escherichia coil.

This study prepared an innovative 3-mercaptopropionic acid modified ZnSe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (MPA-ZnSe/ZnS QDs), and established a rapid fluorescence method to detect the E. coli cells count by using MPA-ZnSe/ZnS QDs as fluorescence probe. The formulation variables and process were optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM). Fluorescence microscopy was used to obtain fluorescence microscope images of MPA-ZnSe/ZnS QDs that bind to bacteria. The fluorescence peak intensity increases with increasing cells count in the range of 101-108 CFU/mL. Compared with the traditional based on fluorescent detection methods, this method is more convenient and useful in the bacterial count determination.