Dual-channel signals for intracellular mRNA detection via a PRET nanosensor.

An intracellular nanosensor was designed and developed to accurately sense mRNA in living cells without false positive results. This nanosensor consists of gold nanoparticles assembled with recognition sequences and dye-labelled nanoflares. By analyzing both the wavelength shifts and intensity recovery of the scattering spectra, this dual-channel nanosensor could efficiently distinguish and avoid the interference induced by other common substances. This novel dual-channel nanosensor would precisely recognize the target mRNA, and it is promising for further cancer diagnoses.