Current progress in aptamer-based sensing tools for ultra-low level monitoring of Alzheimer's disease biomarkers

Hemin/G-quadruplex and AuNPs-MoS2 based novel dual signal amplification strategy for ultrasensitively sandwich-type electrochemical thrombin aptasensor

In this work, a novel sandwich-type electrochemical aptasensor based on the dual signal amplification strategy of hemin/G-quadruplex and AuNPs-MoS2 was designed and constructed, which realized the highly sensitive and specific detection of thrombin (TB). In this aptasensor, the 15-mer TB-binding aptamer (TBA-1) modified with thiol group was immobilized on the surface of AuNPs modified glassy carbon electrode (AuNPs/GCE) as capturing elements. Another thiol-modified 29-mer TB-binding aptamer (TBA-2) sequence containing G-quadruplex structure for hemin immobilization was designed. The formed hemin/G-quadruplex/TBA-2 sequence was further combined to the AuNPs decorated flower-like molybdenum disulfide (AuNPs-MoS2) composite surface via Au-S bonds, acting the role of reporter probe. In presence of the target TB, the sandwich-type electrochemical aptamer detection system could be formed properly. With the assistance of the dual signal amplification of AuNPs-MoS2 and hemin/G-quadruplex toward H2O2 reduction, the sandwich-type electrochemical aptasensor was successfully constructed for sensitive detection of TB. The results demonstrate that the fabricated aptasensor displays a wide linear range of 1.0 × 10-6 ∼ 10.0 nM with a low detection limit of 0.34 fM. This proposed aptasensor shows potential application in the detection of TB content in real biological samples with high sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability.

Amyloid detection in neurodegenerative diseases using MOFs

Neurodegenerative diseases (amyloid diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's), stemming from protein misfolding and aggregation, encompass a spectrum of disorders with severe systemic implications. Timely detection is pivotal in managing these diseases owing to their significant impact on organ function and high mortality rates. The diverse array of amyloid disorders, spanning localized and systemic manifestations, underscores the complexity of these conditions and highlights the need for advanced detection methods. Traditional approaches have focused on identifying biomarkers using imaging techniques (PET and MRI) or invasive procedures. However, recent efforts have focused on the use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a versatile class of materials known for their unique properties, in revolutionizing amyloid disease detection. The high porosity, customizable structures, and biocompatibility of MOFs enable their integration with biomolecules, laying the groundwork for highly sensitive and specific biosensors. These sensors have been employed using electrochemical and photophysical techniques that target amyloid species under neurodegenerative conditions. The adaptability of MOFs allows for the precise detection and quantification of amyloid proteins, offering potential advancements in early diagnosis and disease management. This review article delves into how MOFs contribute to detecting amyloid diseases by categorizing their uses based on different sensing methods, such as electrochemical (EC), electrochemiluminescence (ECL), fluorescence, Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), up-conversion luminescence resonance energy transfer (ULRET), and photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing. The drawbacks of MOF biosensors and the challenges encountered in the field are also briefly explored from our perspective.

Sensor-integrated brain-on-a-chip platforms: Improving the predictive validity in neurodegenerative research

Affecting millions of individuals worldwide, neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) pose a significant and growing health concern in people over the age of 60 years. Contributing to this trend are the steady increase in the aging population coupled with a persistent lack of disease-altering treatment strategies targeting NDDs. The absence of efficient therapeutics can be attributed to high failure rates in clinical trials and the ineptness of animal models in preceding preclinical studies. To that end, in recent years, significant research effort has been dedicated to the development of human cell-based preclinical disease models characterized by a higher degree of predictive validity. However, a key requirement of any in vitro model constitutes the precise knowledge and replication of the target tissues' (patho-)physiological microenvironment. Herein, microphysiological systems have demonstrated superiority over conventional static 2D/3D in vitro cell culture systems, as they allow for the emulation and continuous monitoring of the onset, progression, and remission of disease-associated phenotypes. This review provides an overview of recent advances in the field of NDD research using organ-on-a-chip platforms. Specific focus is directed toward non-invasive sensing strategies encompassing electrical, electrochemical, and optical sensors. Additionally, promising on- and integrable off-chip sensing strategies targeting key analytes in NDDs will be presented and discussed in detail.

Ultrasensitive Aptasensing Platform for the Detection of β-Amyloid-42 Peptide Based on MOF Containing Bimetallic Porphyrin Graphene Oxide and Gold Nanoparticles

The prompt detection of diseases hinges on the accessibility and the capability to identify relevant biomarkers. The integration of aptamers and the incorporation of nanomaterials into signal transducers have not only expedited but also enhanced the development of nanoaptasensors, enabling heightened sensitivity and selectivity. Here, the bimetallic nickel-cobalt-porphyrin metal-organic framework ((Ni + Cu)TPyP MOF) is regarded as an electron mediator, immobilization platform for an Alzheimer aptamer and to increase the electrochemical signal for the detection of the main biomarker of Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyloid β (Aβ-42). Furthermore, the ((Ni + Cu)TPyP MOF) was combined with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), on a gold electrode (GE) to provide an efficient interface for immobilizing aptamer strands. Concurrently, the incorporation of rGO and AuNPs imparts enhanced electrical conductivity and efficacious catalytic activity, establishing them as adept electrochemical indicators. Owing to the superior excellent electrical conductivity of rGO and AuNPs, coupled with the presence of ample mesoporous channels and numerous Ni and Cu metal sites within (Ni + Cu)TPyP MOF, this nanostructure with abundant functional groups is proficient in immobilizing a substantial quantity of aptamer. These interactions are achieved through robust π-π stacking and electrostatic interactions, alongside the high affinity between the thiol group of the aptamer and AuNPs concurrently. The as-prepared ternary (Au@(Ni + Cu)TPyP MOF/rGO) nanostructure electrode exhibited an enhancement in its electrochemically active surface area of about 7 times, compared with the bare electrode and the Aβ-42 redox process is highly accelerated, so the peak currents are significantly higher than those obtained with bare GE substrate. Under the optimized conditions, the designed aptasensor had the quantitative detection of Aβ-42 with a low detection limit of 48.6 fg mL-1 within the linear range of 0.05 pg mL-1 to 5 ng mL-1 by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), accompanied by precise reproducibility, satisfactory stability (95.6% of the initial activity after 10 days), and minimal impact of interfering agents. Recorded results in human blood plasma demonstrated the high efficacy of porphyrin MOF system sensing even in the clinical matrix. The great performance of this aptasensor indicates that our new design of Au@(Ni + Cu)TPyP MOF/rGO nanostructure provides more opportunities for the detection of chemical signals in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Emerging trends in wastewater treatment: Addressing microorganic pollutants and environmental impacts

This review focuses on the challenges and advances associated with the treatment and management of microorganic pollutants, encompassing pesticides, industrial chemicals, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment. The translocation of these contaminants across multiple media, particularly through atmospheric transport, emphasizes their pervasive nature and the subsequent ecological risks. The urgency to develop cost-effective remediation strategies for emerging organic contaminants is paramount. As such, wastewater-based epidemiology and the increasing concern over estrogenicity are explored. By incorporating conventional and innovative wastewater treatment techniques, this article highlights the integration of environmental management strategies, analytical methodologies, and the importance of renewable energy in waste treatment. The primary objective is to provide a comprehensive perspective on the current scenario, imminent threats, and future directions in mitigating the effects of these pollutants on the environment. Furthermore, the review underscores the need for international collaboration in developing standardized guidelines and policies for monitoring and controlling these microorganic pollutants. It advocates for increased investment in research and development of advanced materials and technologies that can efficiently remove or neutralize these contaminants, thereby safeguarding environmental health and promoting sustainable practice.

A comprehensive computer simulation insight into inhibitory mechanisms of EGCG and NQTrp ligands on amyloid-beta assemblies as the Alzheimer's disease insignia

Amyloid-β peptide with predominant presence in the senile plaques is the most common agent for Alzheimer's disease (AD) incidence. Assembly of the amyloid-β(1-42) (Aβ1-42) isoform is known as the main reason for the AD appearance. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and 1,4-naphthoquinone-2-yl-L-tryptophan (NQTrp) are two small molecules that inhibit the formation of the Aβ1-42 fibrils. The present study provides molecular insight to clarify the inhibitory mechanisms of the EGCG and NQTrp ligands on the Aβ1-42 assemblies by using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Hence, nine different Aβ1-42-containing systems including the monomer, dimer, and hexamer of Aβ1-42 considering each of them in a media with no ligands, in the presence of one EGCG ligand, and in the presence of one EGCG ligand were studied with a simulation time of 1 µs for each system. The precise investigation of the peptide-ligand distance, conformational factor (Pi), solvent accessible surface area (SASA), dictionary of secondary structure (DSSP), and Lys28-Ala42 salt bridge analyses confirmed that the hydroxyl-rich structure of the EGCG ligand applied its inhibitory effect on the aggregation of the peptides indirectly by involving water molecules. While the hydroxyl-free structure of the NQTrp ligand exposed its inhibitory effect through a direct interaction with the Aβ1-42 peptides. Besides, reduced density gradient (RDG) analysis clarified the hydrogen bonding interactions as the dominant ones for the peptide-EGCG systems, and also, steric and van der Waals interactions for the peptide-NQTrp systems.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Self-assembly of Au nanocubes for ultrasensitive detection of Alzheimer's disease biomarkers by SERS

Since presently Alzheimer's disease (AD) is incurable, early diagnosis of AD is crucial. Aβ 1-42 and tau-441 proteins are promising core biomarkers for early diagnosis and early therapeutic intervention in AD. Here we constructed a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor for highly sensitive quantitative detection of Aβ 1-42 and tau proteins by preparing gold nanocube (AuNC) superlattices through evaporation self-assembly. The results showed that the method has a wide response range (0.1-10 000 ng mL-1 and 0.01-1000 ng mL-1, respectively) and high sensitivity. The detection limits of Aβ1-42 and tau protein were 0.0416 ng mL-1 and 0.0087 ng mL-1, respectively. In addition, the method was able to rapidly and simultaneously detect the two biomarkers in serum, which showed the feasibility of the method in complex biological environments. The detection of Aβ 1-42 and tau protein has great potential for the accurate prediction and early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker Detection Using Field Effect Transistor-Based Biosensor

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is closely related to neurodegeneration, leading to dementia and cognitive impairment, especially in people aged > 65 years old. The detection of biomarkers plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment of AD, particularly at the onset stage. Field-effect transistor (FET)-based sensors are emerging devices that have drawn considerable attention due to their crucial ability to recognize various biomarkers at ultra-low concentrations. Thus, FET is broadly manipulated for AD biomarker detection. In this review, an overview of typical FET features and their operational mechanisms is described in detail. In addition, a summary of AD biomarker detection and the applicability of FET biosensors in this research field are outlined and discussed. Furthermore, the trends and future prospects of FET devices in AD diagnostic applications are also discussed.

Design of an electrochemical aptasensor in the presence of an array of gold nanostructure and a GO-MWCNTs nanocomposite: application in diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is considered one of the main progressive chronic diseases in elderly individuals. Early diagnosis using related biomarkers, specifically beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ), allows finding expected treatment routes. Here, we developed an electrochemical aptasensing platform for AD by employing a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with a layer of jagged gold (JG) nanostructure (diameter: 60-185 nm) and graphene oxide-carboxylic acid functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (GO-c-MWCNTs) nanocomposite. These surface modifications acted as the signal amplifier and provided an optimum nano-interface substrate for immobilizing aptamer strands. The measurements of Aβ were performed via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and the aptasensor detected the analyte in a linear range from 0.1 pg mL-1 to 1 ng mL-1, with an estimated limit of detection (LOD) of about 0.088 pg mL-1 (S/N = 3). The aptasensor showed sufficient stability (11 days), reversibility (three times), and reproducibility (five times re-fabrication with relative standard deviation (RSD): 1.27). The potential interfering agents showed negligible impact on the sensing performance. Finally, the application of the aptasensor was evaluated in the presence of 10 serum samples, and the recovery values were from 93 to 110.1%.

Poly(allylamine) coated layer-by-layer assembly decorated 2D carbon backbone for highly sensitive and selective detection of Tau-441 using surface plasmon resonance biosensor

The determination of clinically significant amounts of tau protein in bodily fluids is a major problem in Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis. As a result, the present work aims to develop a simple, label-free, fast, highly sensitive, and selective 2D carbon backbone graphene oxide (GO) patterned surface plasmon resonance (SPR) mediated affinity biosensor for Tau-441 monitoring. Initially, non-plasmonic nanosized GO was made using a modified Hummers' method, whereas green synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were subjected to a layer-by-layer (LbL) design employing anionic and cationic polyelectrolytes. Several spectroscopical evaluations were carried out to ensure the synthesis of GO, AuNPs, and LbL assembly. Following that, the Anti-Tau rabbit antibody was immobilized on the designed LbL assembly using carbodiimide chemistry, and various studies such as sensitivity, selectivity, stability, repeatability, spiked sample analysis, etc., were conducted using the constructed affinity GO@LbL-AuNPs-Anti-Tau SPR biosensor. As an output, it shows a broad concentration range and a very low detection limit of 150 ng/mL to 5 fg/mL and 13.25 fg/mL, respectively. The remarkable sensitivity of this SPR biosensor represents the merits of a combination of plasmonic AuNPs and a non-plasmonic GO. It also exhibits great selectivity for Tau-441 in the presence of interfering molecules, which may be because of the immobilization of the Anti-Tau rabbit on the surface of the LbL assembly. Furthermore, it ensured high stability and repeatability, while spiked sample analysis and AD-induced animal samples analysis confirmed the practicability of GO@LbL-AuNPs-Anti-Tau SPR biosensor for Tau-441 detection. In conclusion, fabricated sensitive, selective, stable, label-free, quick, simple, and minimally invasive GO@LbL-AuNPs-Anti-Tau SPR biosensor will provide an alternative for AD diagnosis in the future.

Fluorescent Sensing Platforms for Detecting and Imaging the Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disease with clinical symptoms of memory loss and cognitive impairment. Currently, no effective drug or therapeutic method is available for curing this disease. The major strategy used is to identify and block AD at its initial stage. Thus, early diagnosis is very important for intervention of the disease and assessment of drug efficacy. The gold standards of clinical diagnosis include the measurement of AD biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid and positron emission tomography imaging of the brain for amyloid-β (Aβ) deposits. However, these methods are difficult to apply to the general screening of a large aging population because of their high cost, radioactivity and inaccessibility. Comparatively, blood sample detection is less invasive and more accessible for the diagnosis of AD. Hence, a variety of assays based on fluorescence analysis, surface-enhanced Raman scattering, electrochemistry, etc., were developed for the detection of AD biomarkers in blood. These methods play significant roles in recognizing asymptomatic AD and predicting the course of the disease. In a clinical setting, the combination of blood biomarker detection with brain imaging may enhance the accuracy of early diagnosis. Fluorescence-sensing techniques can be used not only to detect the levels of biomarkers in blood but also to image biomarkers in the brain in real time due to their low toxicity, high sensitivity and good biocompatibility. In this review, we summarize the newly developed fluorescent sensing platforms and their application in detecting and imaging biomarkers of AD, such as Aβ and tau in the last five years, and discuss their prospects for clinical applications.

A Non-Immunized and BSA-Template Aggregation-Induced Emission Sensor for Noninvasive Detection of Cystatin C in the Clinical Diagnosis of Diabetes Nephropathy

Diabetes nephropathy (DN) is one of the main causes of death in patients with diabetes. Cystatin C (Cys C) is a reliable indicator of glomerular filtration function. Therefore, it is urgent and meaningful to obtain early warning of DN by noninvasive measurement of Cys C. In this investigation, a novel fluorescence sensor (BSA-AIEgen sensor) was synthesized by cross-linking the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics of 2-(4-bromophenyl)-3-(4-(4-(diphenylamino) styryl) phenyl) fumaronitrile (TPABDFN) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), which exhibited the "On" state owing to the restriction of the intramolecular motions (RIM) phenomenon of TPABDFN. Intriguingly, a decrease in fluorescence of BSA-AIEgen sensors could be found owing to BSA on the surface of BSA-AIEgen sensor hydrolyzed by papain, but a reverse phenomenon emerged with the increase of Cys C content as the inhibitor of papain. Hence, Cys C was successfully detected by employing the fluorescent differential display and the linear range was from 12.5 ng/mL to 800 ng/mL (R² = 0.994) with the limit of detection (LOD) of 7.10 ng/mL (S/N = 3). Further, the developed BSA-AIEgen sensor successfully differentiates patients with diabetes nephropathy from volunteers with the advantages of high specificity, low cost, and simple operation. Accordingly, it is expected to become a non-immunized method to monitor Cys C for the early warning, noninvasive diagnosis, and drug efficacy evaluation of diabetes nephropathy.

Metal-organic frameworks: A promising option for the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptide is one of the main characteristic biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous clinical investigations have proposed that unusual concentrations of this biomarker in cerebrospinal fluid, blood, and brain tissue are closely associated with the AD progression. Therefore, the critical point of early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of AD is to monitor the levels of Aβ. In view of the potential of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for diagnosing and treating the AD, much attention has been focused in recent years. This review discusses the latest advances in the applications of MOFs for the early diagnosis of AD via fluorescence and electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection of AD biomarkers, fluorescence detection of the main metal ions in the brain (Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Fe³⁺, and Al³⁺) in addition to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the Aβ plaques. The current challenges and future strategies for translating the in vitro applications of MOFs into in vivo diagnosis of the AD are discussed.

Aptamer-conjugated graphene oxide-based surface assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry for selective extraction and detection of Aβ1–42 in an Alzheimer’s disease SH-SY5 cell model

The generation and accumulation of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ_1–42) in amyloid plaques are key characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD); thus, specific detection of Aβ_1–42 is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of AD. Herein, an aptamer-conjugated graphene oxide (Apt-GO) sensor was synthesized by π-π and hydrophobic interactions using thiol poly (ethylene glycol) amine (SH-PEG-NH₂) as a spacer unit. Then, it was applied to selective capture of Aβ_1–42, and the resulting complex was directly analyzed by surface-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS). The results revealed that the Apt-GO could enhance the detection specificity and reduce non-specific adsorption. This method was validated to be sensitive in detecting Aβ_1–42 at a low level in human serum (ca. 0.1 μM) within a linear range from 0.1 to 10 μM. The immobilizing amount of aptamer on the GO was calculated to be 36.1 nmol/mg (RSD = 11.5%). In conclusion, this Apt-GO-based SALDI-MS method was sensitive and efficient in selective extraction and detection of Aβ_1–42, which proved to be a good option for early AD diagnosis.

Aptamer Selection Based on Microscale Electrophoretic Filtration Using a Hydrogel-Plugged Capillary Device

This study reports a novel aptamer selection method based on microscale electrophoretic filtration. Aptamers are versatile materials that recognize specific targets and are attractive for their applications in biosensors, diagnosis, and therapy. However, their practical applications remain scarce due to issues with conventional selection methods, such as complicated operations, low-efficiency separation, and expensive apparatus. To overcome these drawbacks, a selection method based on microscale electrophoretic filtration using a capillary partially filled with hydrogel was developed. The electrophoretic filtration of model target proteins (immunoglobulin E (IgE)) using hydrogel, the electrokinetic injection of DNAs to interact with the trapped proteins, the elimination of DNAs with weak interactions, and the selective acquisition of aptamer candidates with strong interactions were successfully demonstrated, revealing the validity of the proposed concept. Two aptamer candidates for IgE were obtained after three selection cycles, and their affinity for the target was confirmed to be less than 1 nM based on their dissociation constant (K_D) values. Therefore, the proposed method allows for the selection of aptamers with simple operations, highly effective separation based on electrophoresis and filtration, and a relatively cheap apparatus with disposable devices.

Recent advancements in coralyne (COR)-based biosensors: Basic principles, various strategies and future perspectives

As a kind of protoberberine alkaloid heterocyclic analogues, coralyne (COR) has been reported to exhibit superior antileukemic ability and used as anticancer drug agent. While, the severe hazards and side effects caused by unreasonable use have made its accurate detection more and more important. Although scientists have explored various methods to sense COR and other related targets, a systematical review which could not only elaborate recent developments and analyze current challenges of COR-based biosensors, but also present future perspective has not been reported and is urgently needed. In this review, we attempt to summarize latest advancements in COR-based biosensors in recent decade. Firstly, the operating principles, advantages and disadvantages of various strategies for COR detection (colorimetric, fluorescent, electrochemical and other ones) are comprehensively demonstrated and reviewed. Secondly, COR-assisted biosensors for detection of different non-COR targets (heparin, toxins, nucleic acids and other small molecules) are further discussed. Finally, we analyze current challenges and also suggest potential perspectives for this area.

Recent Advances in Electrochemical Aptasensors for Detection of Biomarkers

The early diagnosis of diseases is of great importance for the effective treatment of patients. Biomarkers are one of the most promising medical approaches in the diagnosis of diseases and their progress and facilitate reaching this goal. Among the many methods developed in the detection of biomarkers, aptamer-based biosensors (aptasensors) have shown great promise. Aptamers are promising diagnostic molecules with high sensitivity and selectivity, low-cost synthesis, easy modification, low toxicity, and high stability. Electrochemical aptasensors with high sensitivity and accuracy have attracted considerable attention in the field of biomarker detection. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in biomarker detection using electrochemical aptasensors. The principles of detection, sensitivity, selectivity, and other important factors in aptasensor performance are investigated. Finally, advantages and challenges of the developed aptasensors are discussed.