A breakthrough in nanotechnology enhances toxic metal detection, paving the way for improved disease diagnostics and environmental monitoring
Guwahati, India – Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have pioneered a groundbreaking method to detect harmful metals in living cells and the environment. The study, led by Prof. Saikat Bhaumik, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, in collaboration with Prof. Chandan Goswami from NISER Bhubaneswar, introduces a cost-effective and highly sensitive technique for identifying toxic metals like mercury in human cells. This innovation holds immense potential for disease diagnostics and environmental monitoring, ensuring better management of metal toxicity in biological systems.
Revolutionary Use of Perovskite Nanocrystals
At the heart of this research are perovskite nanocrystals, state-of-the-art materials renowned for their exceptional optical properties. These ultra-small crystals—nearly 100,000 times thinner than a human hair—interact with light to serve as fluorescent probes inside living cells. However, their rapid degradation in water has been a major drawback, limiting their practical applications.
To overcome this challenge, the IIT Guwahati team encapsulated these nanocrystals in silica and polymer coatings, enhancing their stability and luminescent intensity. This innovation extends their usability, making them highly effective for real-world applications.
Unmatched Sensitivity in Mercury Detection
The newly developed perovskite nanocrystals emit a bright green fluorescence under specific light wavelengths, allowing for ultra-sensitive mercury detection. Even at nanomolar concentrations, these nanocrystals can identify mercury, a toxic metal linked to neurological disorders, organ dysfunction, and cognitive impairments.
Moreover, laboratory tests on live mammalian cells confirmed that the nanocrystals are non-toxic, maintaining cellular health while effectively tracking mercury ions.
Breakthrough in Advanced Imaging Technology
Highlighting the impact of this research, Prof. Saikat Bhaumik stated,
“One of the standout features of these perovskite nanocrystals is their narrow emission linewidth, which significantly improves detection sensitivity. Traditional imaging methods often struggle with light scattering, making deep-cell imaging difficult. However, these nanocrystals exhibit multiphoton absorption, allowing for clear and detailed imaging—a game-changer for medical and biological research.”
Potential for Healthcare and Environmental Applications
Beyond mercury detection, this innovative technology could be adapted for:
- Detecting other toxic metals in biological and environmental samples.
- Drug delivery applications, enabling real-time monitoring of treatment efficacy.
- Fluorescence imaging advancements, improving diagnostic capabilities in medicine.
Publication in Leading Scientific Journals
The research findings have been published in prestigious journals such as Journal of Materials Chemistry C and Materials Today Chemistry. The research team includes Mr. Ashutosh Mohapatra, Ms. Kajol Sahoo, Mr. Tusar Kanta Acharya, Mr. Satish Kumar, and Mr. Nishant Kumar Dubey.
IIT Guwahati’s Commitment to Innovation
This breakthrough underscores IIT Guwahati’s dedication to cutting-edge research, addressing global environmental and healthcare challenges. With its pioneering approach to nanotechnology, the institute continues to push boundaries in sustainable science and advanced diagnostics.
The development of stable perovskite nanocrystals marks a major leap in toxic metal detection and medical imaging. As this research progresses, it promises to revolutionize environmental monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, and drug delivery technologies, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in scientific innovation.