Au nanoparticles deposited on ultrathin two-dimensional covalent organic framework nanosheets for in vitro and intracellular sensing.

A novel composite nanomaterial is prepared by growing small Au nanoparticles on two-dimensional covalent organic framework nanosheets (Au NPs/COF NSs). The synthesized hybrid nanosheets are used as a new platform for multiplexed detection of hepatitis A virus DNA (HAV) and hepatitis B virus DNA (HBV). Additionally, this sensing platform based on Au NPs/COF NSs can be used as a candidate for monitoring the distribution of potassium ions (K+) and the intracellular K+ level in living cells. Accordingly, the sensing systems based on hybrid Au NPs/COF NSs have shown great potential for the investigation of biomolecules and related biological applications.