In-situ and controllable synthesis of graphene-gold nanoparticles/molecularly imprinted polymers composite modified electrode for sensitive and selective rutin detection

Identification and quantification of rutin is critical to pharmaceutical quality control and pharmacokinetic study. Herein, we report on a disposable electrochemical sensor based on in-situ and controllable synthesis of graphene (Gr)-gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) composite modified screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) for sensitive and selective rutin detection. Both Gr-AuNPs and MIPs were step by step formed on SPEs via electrochemical reduction and polymerization processes. The compositions, morphologies, and electrochemical properties of composite were investigated. After optimization of experimental conditions, the linear detection range recorded by the current responses of SPEs vertical bar Gr-AuNPs/MIPs electrode to rutin was 0.04 to 60.0 mu M (R = 0.9988). A limit of detection of 0.014 mu M (S/N = 3) was achieved. Due to the enhanced electrochemical performance resulting from synergistic effects of Gr-AuNPs and MIPs, the electrochemical sensor showed good anti-interference ability, long-term stability, and acceptable reproducibility. More, it was successfully employed to analyze rutin in medicinal tablets with good accuracy and recovery.