Smart Food Testing: The Power of Tiny Mn3O4 Helpers

In the world of food safety, tiny particles called Mn3O4 nanozymes are making a big impact. These tiny helpers can spot harmful substances like chloramphenicol in food quickly and easily.

Why They're Special

• Immediate Use: Unlike old methods, there's no waiting around for these nanozymes to degrade or lose their effectiveness.
• Efficient: Saves time, energy, and reduces waste.

Their Unique Superpower

• Activate Oxygen: They can activate oxygen in water to create special molecules called superoxide anions.
• Break Down Substances: These molecules are great at breaking down other substances, like a blue dye called TMB.

How It Works

• Vitamin C's Role: When ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is around, it reduces the blue dye. The more vitamin C there is, the faster the blue dye disappears.
• Measurable Change: This change can be measured, giving a clear signal.

Double Signal Reliability

• Heat Detection: The broken-down dye heats up when hit with a special near-infrared laser. This heat can also be measured.
• Two Signals: One from the color change and another from the heat, making the test even more reliable.

Powerful Testing Tool

• Sensitive Detection: Can detect chloramphenicol in amounts as low as 0.325 picograms per milliliter.
• Wide Range: Measures concentrations from 1 to 5000 picograms per milliliter.

Versatile and Stable

• Easy to Use: Can be made and used right away.
• Wide Applications: Useful for food testing and even disease diagnosis.

This new approach shows the great potential of nanozymes in bioanalysis and point-of-care testing.