A Robust Electrochemical Aptasensor Based on a AuNP/Chitosan Conductive Network for Saxitoxin Detection in Freshwater Samples

Abstract

Saxitoxin (STX) is a highly potent marine biotoxin, and trace contamination in aquatic environments can pose serious risks to human health. Therefore, reliable detection of low-concentration STX is crucial for water safety monitoring. Here, we developed a robust electrochemical aptasensor based on a gold nanoparticle/chitosan (AuNP/CS) conductive network for STX detection in freshwater samples. The chitosan matrix provides a three-dimensional scaffold for aptamer immobilization, while interconnected AuNPs create efficient electron-transfer pathways across the sensing interface. This integrated architecture improves interfacial conductivity and supports stable target-induced aptamer recognition. The aptasensor exhibits a linear response from 1 to 1000 nM and a limit of detection of 0.74 nM, with an apparent dissociation constant Kd = 70.29 ± 29.2 nM, together with high batch-to-batch consistency and long-term stability, retaining 93% of its initial response after 25 days. In spiked freshwater samples, the aptasensor achieved recoveries ranging from 99.10% to 111.33%, demonstrating the practical potential of this platform for monitoring STX contamination in aquatic environments.