Preparation of DNA-encapsulated polyethersulfone hollow microspheres for organic compounds and heavy metal ions removal

DNA-encapsulated polyethersulfone (PES) hollow microspheres are fabricated by means of a liquid-liquid phase separation technique; the hollow microspheres are then used to remove environmental pollutant organic compounds and heavy metal ions. The amounts of DNA encapsulated in the microspheres are dependent on the PES concentration, the DNA concentration used to prepare the particles, and the diameter of the syringe needle. The hollow microspheres can be used to remove harmful organic compounds including ethidium bromide (EB), acridine orange (AO) and endocrine disruptors. With the increase of the DNA amount encapsulated into the hollow microspheres, the removal ratios of these compounds increased. Additionally, the DNA-encapsulated PES hollow microspheres can selectively accumulate and remove heavy metal ions such as Ag⁺, Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺ These results suggested that the DNA-encapsulated PES hollow microspheres have a potential to be used in environmental applications.