Crystal violet as an i-motif structure probe for reversible and label-free pH-driven electrochemical switch

A simple pH-induced electrochemical switch based on an i-motif structure is developed by using crystal violet as a selective electrochemical probe for the i-motif structure. Thiol-modified cytosine-rich single-strand oligonucleotide (C-rich ssDNA) can be self-assembled on the gold electrode surface via gold–sulfur interaction. Crystal violet is employed as an electrochemical probe for the i-motif structure because of its capability of binding with the i-motif structure through an end-stacking mode. In acidic aqueous solution, crystal violet may approach the electrode surface owing to the formation of the i-motif structure, resulting in an obvious signal, so-called “ON” state. Whereas in neutral or basic aqueous solution, the i-motif structure unfolds to dissociative single strand, which causes crystal violet to leave from the electrode surface, and a weak signal is obtained, so-called “OFF” state. In addition, in the range of pH 4.6–7.3, the increase in current has a good linear relationship (R = 0.989) with pH value in the testing solutions. This pH-driven electrochemical switch has the advantages of simplicity, sensitivity, high selectivity, and good reversibility. Furthermore, it provides a possible platform for pH measurement.