Recent Advances in Electrochemical Sensors for the Detection of Biomolecules and Whole Cells

Abstract

Electrochemical sensors are considered an auspicious tool to detect biomolecules (e.g., DNA, proteins, and lipids), which are valuable sources for the early diagnosis of diseases and disorders. Advances in electrochemical sensing platforms have enabled the development of a new type of biosensor, enabling label-free, non-destructive detection of viability, function, and the genetic signature of whole cells. Numerous studies have attempted to enhance both the sensitivity and selectivity of electrochemical sensors, which are the most critical parameters for assessing sensor performance. Various nanomaterials, including metal nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, graphene and its derivatives, and metal oxide nanoparticles, have been used to improve the electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic properties of working electrodes, increasing sensor sensitivity. Further modifications have been implemented to advance sensor platform selectivity and biocompatibility using biomaterials such as antibodies, aptamers, extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, and peptide composites. This paper summarizes recent electrochemical sensors designed to detect target biomolecules and animal cells (cancer cells and stem cells). We hope that this review will inspire researchers to increase their efforts to accelerate biosensor progress—enabling a prosperous future in regenerative medicine and the biomedical industry.

Advances in Electrochemical and Acoustic Aptamer-Based Biosensors and Immunosensors in Diagnostics of Leukemia

“…Several examples of electrochemical cell sensors based on DNA aptamers were reviewed in papers by Justino et al [12], Yazdian-Robati [130], and Nur et al [93]. Recent papers by Suhito et al [131] reviewed achievements in development of both immuno-and aptasensors for cell detection.…”

New Trends in Nanoclay-Modified Sensors

“…Results in biology are usually complex, non-linear, and non-reproducible. Thus, the development of sensors with improved sensitivity and reproducibility represents an increasingly important area of research [7,8]. In the areas of agriculture and environment, sensors have been widely developed for the determination of pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals in the soil and ground water, opening a new strategy for active prevention of forecast contamination.…”

Ultrasensitive Detection of COVID-19 Causative Virus (SARS-CoV-2) Spike Protein Using Laser Induced Graphene Field-Effect Transistor

“…Based on the unique physical/chemical properties of the protein, there are techniques, such as electrophoresis [15], immunoblotting [16], autoradiography [17], mass spectrometry [18], and proteomics [19]. Among them, fluorescent tagging [20][21][22] or electrochemical detection [23][24][25] are the two main methods in the coronavirus-specific detection field. Fluorescence tagging, which depends on the composites in the reaction solution, has its fluorescence intensity affected by the distance of detecting particles, and the applications are hindered by the laboriousness and expensive reagent requirements [26].…”