Ultrasensitive Detection of Pb(2+) Based on a DNAzyme and Digital PCR

In this study, an ultrasensitive detection method for aqueous Pb(2+) based on digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) technology and a Pb(2+)-dependent DNAzyme was developed. In the presence of Pb(2+), the Gr-5 DNAzyme was activated and catalyzed the hydrolytic cleavage of the substrate strand, resulting in an increase in the amount of template DNA available for dPCR and a resultant change in the number of droplets showing a positive signal. Moreover, the detection system was found to be sensitive and stable in environmental sample detection. In summary, an ultrasensitive quantitative detection method for Pb(2+) within environmental substrates was established.