Mimicking neuromelanin nanoparticles as a selective Pb2+ probe

Abstract

Exposure to even very low concentration of Pb²⁺ can cause neurological and developmental disorders, and affects children more severely. Neuromelanin (NM) in the substantial nigra can trap endogenous and environmental toxins and immobilize them as stable adducts, thus protecting brain against toxicity. Until now, the structure and Pb²⁺-chelating ability of NM is still little understood. Here, we prepare a mimicking NM by amino acid and dopamine. The prepared NM has strong fluorescent and its fluorescence can be quenched by Pb²⁺. This study offers a novel way to synthetic NM and provides an effective method to detect Pb²⁺.

Keywords: Amino acid; Fluorescence; Lead ions; Neuromelanin-like nanoparticles.