Cystatin C biosensors for diagnosis of kidney failure – A literature review

Abstract

Kidney diseases are a major global health threat and the development of new and improved detection methods for early diagnostic is imperative. Biosensors are devices capable of delivering rapid and specific results, allied to the possibility of miniaturization and point-ofcare diagnostics. Different transducing methods are presented and different nanomaterials are involved to produce optical and electrochemical approaches with low detection limits and fast responses. This paper reviews the current state-of-the-art in biosensor researches regarding efficient, specific and rapid detection of Cystatin C (CysC), an early kidney failure biomarker.A comprehensive literature search was performed, which included primary research studies on biosensors for Cystatin C detection. Although there have been great developments in the area, the biggest problem is the miniaturization and the ability to accomplish readings directly in blood or serum. This is a concern approached by some researchers in the biosensor field.