A quantum dot-based lateral flow immunoassay for the sensitive detection of human heart fatty acid binding protein (hFABP) in human serum

Abstract We describe the preparation and validation of a novel lateral flow immunoassay test for the detection of human heart fatty acid binding protein (hFABP). Water-soluble CdTe quantum dots (QDs) were selected as the fluorescent label and were linked covalently to anti-hFABP antibodies. Upon conjugation, the secondary structure of the anti-hFABP was preserved and the fluorescence quantum yield of the CdTe QDs increased. The labelled antibodies were transferred to the immunoassay test strip and the antigen–antibody reaction was successfully performed. This evidenced the preserved antibody activity of QD-labelled anti-hFABP towards hFABP, and provided a rapid means for the quantitation of hFABP in human serum within the range of 0–160 ng ∙ ml −1 , with a much lower detection limit of 221 pg. ∙ ml −1 compared with other rapid tests based on lateral flow immunoassays. This new immunoassay test has been successfully used for the early detection of acute myocardial infarction.