Improving the sensitivity in electrochemiluminescence
(ECL) detection
systems necessitates the integration of robust ECL luminophores and
efficient signal transduction. In this study, we report a novel ECL
nanoprobe (Zr-MOF) that exhibits strong and stable emission by incorporating
aggregation-induced emission ligands into Zr-based metal–organic
frameworks (MOFs). Meanwhile, we designed a high-performance signal
modulator through the implementation of a well-designed controlled
release system with a self-on/off function. ZnS quantum dots (QDs)
encapsulated within the cavities of aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles
(NH2–SiO2) serve as the ECL quenchers,
while adenosine triphosphate (ATP) aptamers adsorbed on the surface
of NH2–SiO2 through electrostatic interaction
act as “gatekeepers.” Based on the target-triggered
ECL resonance energy transfer between Zr-MOF and ZnS QDs, we establish
a coreactant-free ECL aptasensor for the sensitive detection of ATP,
achieving an impressive low detection limit of 0.033 nM. This study
not only demonstrates the successful combination of ECL with controlled
release strategies but also opens new avenues for developing highly
efficient MOFs-based ECL systems.