This paper describes for the first time the selection of aptamers selective to penicillin. Aptamers were selected using a specific process called Capture-SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment). This technique is based on the selection of DNA aptamers using penicillin G in solution while the ssDNA library is fixed on a support. One aptamer showing a good affinity to penicillin was finally selected and tested in electrochemical sensor configuration, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy as detection technique. The developed aptasensor allowed the detection of penicillin in a wide concentration range, comprised between 0.4 and 1000µgL-1 Such performance was compatible with milk analysis, as the maximum residue limit tolerated in this matrix is 4µgL-1. The selectivity of the developed sensor was also studied, showing that the sensor was also able to bind other beta-lactam antibiotics, although with a weaker affinity. Finally the sensor was used for detection of penicillin G in milk. It was shown that a simple sample treatment with isopropanol followed by filtration was sufficient to eliminate matrix effects, allowing the determination of penicillin in milk at concentrations compatible with legislation requirements.
Keywords: Aptamers; Capture-SELEX; Impedimetric sensor; Milk analysis; Penicillin.
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