The present invention is directed to a quantum dot nanoparticle-based
universal neurotoxin biosensor having three components (a) a
dendrimer-encapsulated quantum dot nanoparticle; (b)
acetylcholinesterase; and (c) an acceptor fluorophore, wherein the
quantum dot nanoparticle and the acceptor fluorophore linked to the
acetylcholinesterase.