Detection of Homocysteine With Colorimetric Approach Using Carambola Fruit Extract Capped Silver Nanoparticles

Metallic nanoparticles have garnered significant attention due to their unique physicochemical properties and its applicability especially in the detection of proteins present in biological fluids causing critical diseases. Numerous synthesis techniques have been explored to tailor these nanoparticles for selective chemical interaction with particular proteins. In this work, we present an eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by the reduction of silver salts, with employing Carambola (Averrhoa carambola) fruit extract as a natural capping and reducing agent for the colorimetric detection of homocysteine. We have used colorimetric RGB analysis for the determination of homocysteine concentration ranging from 5 μM to 100 μM with very small sample volume of 2ml. The proposed method also demonstrates selective detection of homocysteine over wide range protein present in blood serum opening an avenue for early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.