A review of recent advances in nonenzymatic glucose sensors

Electrochemical Glucose Sensors: Classification, Catalyst Innovation, and Sampling Mode Evolution

Glucose sensors are essential tools for monitoring blood glucose concentration in diabetic patients. In recent years, with the increasing number of individuals suffering from diabetes, blood glucose monitoring has become extremely necessary, which expedites the iteration and upgrade of glucose sensors greatly. Currently, two main types of glucose sensors are available for blood glucose testing: enzyme-based glucose sensor (EBGS) and enzyme-free glucose sensor (EFGS). For EBGS, several progresses have been made to comprehensively improve detection performance, ranging from enhancing enzyme activity, thermostability, and electron transfer properties, to introducing new materials with superior properties. For EFGS, more and more new metallic materials and their oxides are being applied to further optimize its blood glucose monitoring. Here the latest progress of electrochemical glucose sensors, their manufacturing methods, electrode materials, electrochemical parameters, and applications were summarized, the development glucose sensors with various noninvasive sampling modes were also compared.

Rapid and simple viral protein detection by functionalized 2D MoS2/graphene electrochemiluminescence aptasensor

In this work we present the development of an electrochemiluminescence aptasensor based on electrografting molybdenum disulphide nanosheets functionalized with diazonium salt (MoS2-N2+) upon screen-printed electrodes of graphene (SPEs GPH) for viral proteins detection. In brief, this aptasensor consists of SPEs GPH electrografted with MoS2-N2+ and modified with a thiolated aptamer, which can specifically recognize the target protein analyte. In this case, we have used SARS-CoV-2 spike protein as model protein. Electrochemiluminescence detection was performed by using the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPRA (tripropylamine) system, which allows the specific detection of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein easily and rapidly with a detection limit of 9.74 fg/mL and a linear range from 32.5 fg/mL to 50.0 pg/mL. Moreover, the applicability of the aptasensor has been confirmed by the detection of the protein directly in human saliva samples. Comparing our device with a traditional saliva antigen test, our aptasensor can detect the spike protein even when the saliva antigen test gives a negative result.

Bridged Pt-OH-Mn Mediator in N-coordinated Mn Single Atoms and Pt Nanoparticles for Electrochemical Biomolecule Oxidation and Discrimination

The rational design of efficient catalysts for uric acid (UA) electrooxidation, as well as the establishment of structure-activity relationships, remains a critical bottleneck in the field of electrochemical sensing. To address these challenges, herein, a hybrid catalyst that integrates carbon-supported Pt nanoparticles and nitrogen-coordinated Mn single atoms (PtNPs/MnNC) is developed. The metal-metal interaction during annealing affords the construction of metallic-bonded Pt-Mn pairs between PtNPs and Mn single atoms, facilitating the electron transfer from PtNPs to the support and thereby optimizing the electronic structure of catalysts. More importantly, experiments and theoretical calculations provide visual proof for the 'incipient hydrous oxide adatom mediator' mechanism for UA oxidation. The Pt-Mn pairs first adsorb OH* to construct the bridged Pt-OH-Mn mediators to serve as a highly active intermediate for N-H bond dissociation and proton transfer. Benefiting from the unique electronic and geometric structure of the catalytic center and reactive intermediates, PtNPs/MnNC exhibits superior electrooxidation performance. The electrochemical sensor based on PtNPs/MnNC enables sensitive detection and discrimination of UA and dopamine in serum samples. This work offers new insights into the construction of novel electrocatalysts for sensitive sensing platforms.

Silver Nanoclusters as Label Free Non-enzymatic Fast Glucose Assay with the Fluorescent Enhancement Signal

A simple and low-cost green preparation method was used for BSA capped silver nanoclusters (BSA-Ag NCs) as turn on fluorescent probe for glucose. Non-enzymatic fast glucose detection assay with a widest concentration range was proposed which requires neither nanoclusters (NCs) modification nor complicated enzyme immobilization. The DLS analysis, HRTEM patterns, fluorescence and UV-visible measurement well supported the synthesis product. The advantages of the fabricated glucose sensor based on fluorescence increasing of probe compared to other established optical techniques was inspected and summarized as well. The glucose sensor exhibited a high sensitivity, fast response time (in seconds), satisfactory selectivity, well stability (at least two months), low detection limit (31 µmol L- 1) and a wide concentration response (three orders of magnitudes) to glucose between 0.1 and 92 mmol L- 1 as calibration plot. A theoretical model of the sensing mechanism based on the binding interaction of glucose to BSA-Ag NCs is proposed and data fitting demonstrated a good agreement between the experimental and theoretically calculated fluorescence data. The facile preparation and excellent sensing performance of BSA-Ag NCs in the real samples (plasma and juice) make sure that synthesized probe material is a promising candidate for advanced enzyme-free glucose sensing approach.

Recent Development on Sensing Strategies for Small Molecules Detections

Sensors play a critical role in the detection and monitoring of various substances present in our environment, providing us with valuable information about the world around us. Within the field of sensor development, one area that holds particular importance is the detection of small molecules. Small molecules encompass a wide range of organic or inorganic compounds with low molecular weight, typically below 900 Daltons including gases, volatile organic compounds, solvents, pesticides, drugs, biomarkers, toxins, and pollutants. The accurate and efficient detection of these small molecules has attracted significant interest from the scientific community due to its relevance in diverse fields such as environmental pollutants monitoring, medical diagnostics, industrial optimization, healthcare remedies, food safety, ecosystems, and aquatic and terrestrial life preservation. To meet the demand for precise and efficient monitoring of small molecules, this summary aims to provide an overview of recent advancements in sensing and quantification strategies for various organic small molecules including Hydrazine, Glucose, Morpholine, Ethanol amine, Nitrosamine, Oxygen, Nitro-aromatics, Phospholipids, Carbohydrates, Antibiotics, Pesticides, Drugs, Adenosine Triphosphate, Aromatic Amine, Glutathione, Hydrogen Peroxide, Acetone, Methyl Parathion, and Thiophenol. The focus is on understanding the receptor sensing mechanism, along with the electrical, optical, and electrochemical response. Additionally, the variations in UV-visible spectral properties of the ligands upon treatment with the receptor, fluorescence and absorption titration analysis for limit of detection (LOD) determination, and bioimaging analysis are discussed wherever applicable. It is anticipated that the information gathered from this literature survey will be helpful for the perusal of innovation regarding sensing strategies.

Ultrasensitive electrochemical sensor based on synergistic effect of Ag@MXene and antifouling cyclic multifunctional peptide for PD-L1 detection in serum

A sensing interface co-constructed from the two-dimensional conductive material (Ag@MXene) and an antifouling cyclic multifunctional peptide (CP) is described. While the large surface area of Ag@MXene loads more CP probes, CP binds to Ag@MXene to form a fouling barrier and ensure the structural rigidity of the targeting sequence. This strategy synergistically enhances the biosensor's sensitivity and resistance to contamination. The SPR results showed that the binding affinity of the CP to the target was 6.23 times higher than that of the antifouling straight-chain multifunctional peptide (SP) to the target. In the 10 mg/mL BSA electrochemical fouling test, the fouling resistance of Ag@MXene + CP (composite sensing interface of CP combined with Ag@MXene) was 30 times higher than that of the bare electrode. The designed electrochemical sensor exhibited good selectivity and wide dynamic response range at PD-L1 concentrations from 0.1 to 50 ng/mL. The lowest detection limit was 24.54 pg/mL (S/N = 3). Antifouling 2D materials with a substantial specific surface area, coupled with non-straight chain antifouling multifunctional peptides, offer a wide scope for investigating the sensitivity and antifouling properties of electrochemical sensors.

Advances in Nanoarchitectonics: A Review of "Static" and "Dynamic" Particle Assembly Methods

Particle assembly is a promising technique to create functional materials and devices from nanoscale building blocks. However, the control of particle arrangement and orientation is challenging and requires careful design of the assembly methods and conditions. In this study, the static and dynamic methods of particle assembly are reviewed, focusing on their applications in biomaterial sciences. Static methods rely on the equilibrium interactions between particles and substrates, such as electrostatic, magnetic, or capillary forces. Dynamic methods can be associated with the application of external stimuli, such as electric fields, magnetic fields, light, or sound, to manipulate the particles in a non-equilibrium state. This study discusses the advantages and limitations of such methods as well as nanoarchitectonic principles that guide the formation of desired structures and functions. It also highlights some examples of biomaterials and devices that have been fabricated by particle assembly, such as biosensors, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and artificial organs. It concludes by outlining the future challenges and opportunities of particle assembly for biomaterial sciences. This review stands as a crucial guide for scholars and professionals in the field, fostering further investigation and innovation. It also highlights the necessity for continuous research to refine these methodologies and devise more efficient techniques for nanomaterial synthesis. The potential ramifications on healthcare and technology are substantial, with implications for drug delivery systems, diagnostic tools, disease treatments, energy storage, environmental science, and electronics.

MXene-Embedded Porous Carbon-Based Cu2O Nanocomposites for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensors

This work explores the use of MXene-embedded porous carbon-based Cu2O nanocomposite (Cu2O/M/AC) as a sensing material for the electrochemical sensing of glucose. The composite was prepared using the coprecipitation method and further analyzed for its morphological and structural characteristics. The highly porous scaffold of activated (porous) carbon facilitated the incorporation of MXene and copper oxide inside the pores and also acted as a medium for charge transfer. In the Cu2O/M/AC composite, MXene and Cu2O influence the sensing parameters, which were confirmed using electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and amperometric analysis. The prepared composite shows two sets of linear ranges for glucose with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.96 μM. The linear range was found to be 0.004 to 13.3 mM and 15.3 to 28.4 mM, with sensitivity values of 430.3 and 240.5 μA mM-1 cm-2, respectively. These materials suggest that the prepared Cu2O/M/AC nanocomposite can be utilized as a sensing material for non-enzymatic glucose sensors.

In situ growth of self-supported CuO nanorods from Cu-MOFs for glucose sensing and elucidation of the sensing mechanism

Herein, we present a simple and mild method to in situ prepare CuO nanostructures for non-enzymatic glucose sensing. A Cu-metal organic framework (Cu-MOF) precursor was first directly grown on a pencil lead electrode with 3D graphene-like surfaces (EPLE) and then in situ transformed into CuO nanorods. The CuO nanorod-modified EPLE (CuO/EPLE) shows high sensitivity (1138.32 μA mM-1 cm-2), fast response time (1.5 s) and low detection limit (0.11 μM) for glucose oxidation. It has been found that NaOH promoted the generation of ˙OH groups and Cu(III) on the CuO surface, which then facilitated the electrochemical oxidation of glucose. Signals characteristic of hydroxyl and carbon-centered radical adducts were detected by EPR. Furthermore, the CuO/EPLE sensor also shows good accuracy in glucose determination in human serum samples.

Implantable Electrochemical Microsensors for In Vivo Monitoring of Animal Physiological Information

In vivo monitoring of animal physiological information plays a crucial role in promptly alerting humans to potential diseases in animals and aiding in the exploration of mechanisms underlying human diseases. Currently, implantable electrochemical microsensors have emerged as a prominent area of research. These microsensors not only fulfill the technical requirements for monitoring animal physiological information but also offer an ideal platform for integration. They have been extensively studied for their ability to monitor animal physiological information in a minimally invasive manner, characterized by their bloodless, painless features, and exceptional performance. The development of implantable electrochemical microsensors for in vivo monitoring of animal physiological information has witnessed significant scientific and technological advancements through dedicated efforts. This review commenced with a comprehensive discussion of the construction of microsensors, including the materials utilized and the methods employed for fabrication. Following this, we proceeded to explore the various implantation technologies employed for electrochemical microsensors. In addition, a comprehensive overview was provided of the various applications of implantable electrochemical microsensors, specifically in the monitoring of diseases and the investigation of disease mechanisms. Lastly, a concise conclusion was conducted on the recent advancements and significant obstacles pertaining to the practical implementation of implantable electrochemical microsensors.

Advances in nanostructured material-based non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors

Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors that use functional materials to directly catalyze glucose have shown great promise in diabetes management, food control, and bioprocess inspection owing to the advantages of high sensitivity, long-term stability, and low cost. Recently, in order to produce enhanced electrochemical behavior, significant efforts have been devoted to the preparation of functional materials with regular nanostructure, as it provides high specific surface area and well-defined strong active sites for electrochemical sensing. However, the structure-performance correlation in this field has not been reviewed thoroughly in the literature. This review aims to present a comprehensive report on advanced zero- to three-dimensional nanostructures based on the geometric feature and to discuss in depth their structural effects on enzyme-free electrochemical detection of glucose. It starts by illustrating the sensing principles of nanostructured materials, followed by a detailed discussion on the structural effects related to the features of each dimension. The structure-performance correlation is explored by comparing the performance derived from diverse dimensional architectures, which is beneficial for the better design of regular nanostructure to achieve efficient enzyme-free sensing of glucose. Finally, future directions of non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors to solve emerging challenges and further improve the sensing performance are also proposed.

Ultrasensitive Electroanalytical Detection of Pb2+ and H2O2 Using Bi and Fe-Based Nanoparticles Embedded into Porous Carbon Xerogel-The Influence of Nanocomposite Pyrolysis Temperatures

Multifunctional materials based on carbon xerogel (CX) with embedded bismuth (Bi) and iron (Fe) nanoparticles are tested for ultrasensitive amperometric detection of lead cation (Pb2+) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The prepared CXBiFe-T nanocomposites were annealed at different pyrolysis temperatures (T, between 600 and 1050 °C) and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, N2 adsorption, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and electron microscopies (SEM/EDX and TEM). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWV) performed at glassy carbon (GC) electrodes modified with chitosan (Chi)-CXBiFe-T evidenced that GC/Chi-CXBiFe-1050 electrodes exhibit excellent analytical behavior for Pb2+ and H2O2 amperometric detection: high sensitivity for Pb2+ (9.2·105 µA/µM) and outstanding limits of detection (97 fM, signal-to-noise ratio 3) for Pb2+, and remarkable for H2O2 (2.51 µM). The notable improvements were found to be favored by the increase in pyrolysis temperature. Multi-scale parameters such as (i) graphitization, densification of carbon support, and oxide nanoparticle reduction and purification were considered key aspects in the correlation between material properties and electrochemical response, followed by other effects such as (ii) average nanoparticle and Voronoi domain dimensions and (iii) average CXBiFe-T aggregate dimension.

Immobilization of Enzyme Electrochemical Biosensors and Their Application to Food Bioprocess Monitoring

Electrochemical biosensors based on immobilized enzymes are among the most popular and commercially successful biosensors. The literature in this field suggests that modification of electrodes with nanomaterials is an excellent method for enzyme immobilization, which can greatly improve the stability and sensitivity of the sensor. However, the poor stability, weak reproducibility, and limited lifetime of the enzyme itself still limit the requirements for the development of enzyme electrochemical biosensors for food production process monitoring. Therefore, constructing sensing technologies based on enzyme electrochemical biosensors remains a great challenge. This article outlines the construction principles of four generations of enzyme electrochemical biosensors and discusses the applications of single-enzyme systems, multi-enzyme systems, and nano-enzyme systems developed based on these principles. The article further describes methods to improve enzyme immobilization by combining different types of nanomaterials such as metals and their oxides, graphene-related materials, metal-organic frameworks, carbon nanotubes, and conducting polymers. In addition, the article highlights the challenges and future trends of enzyme electrochemical biosensors, providing theoretical support and future perspectives for further research and development of high-performance enzyme chemical biosensors.

Carbon nanotubes: a powerful bridge for conductivity and flexibility in electrochemical glucose sensors

The utilization of nanomaterials in the biosensor field has garnered substantial attention in recent years. Initially, the emphasis was on enhancing the sensor current rather than material interactions. However, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have gained prominence in glucose sensors due to their high aspect ratio, remarkable chemical stability, and notable optical and electronic attributes. The diverse nanostructures and metal surface designs of CNTs, coupled with their exceptional physical and chemical properties, have led to diverse applications in electrochemical glucose sensor research. Substantial progress has been achieved, particularly in constructing flexible interfaces based on CNTs. This review focuses on CNT-based sensor design, manufacturing advancements, material synergy effects, and minimally invasive/noninvasive glucose monitoring devices. The review also discusses the trend toward simultaneous detection of multiple markers in glucose sensors and the pivotal role played by CNTs in this trend. Furthermore, the latest applications of CNTs in electrochemical glucose sensors are explored, accompanied by an overview of the current status, challenges, and future prospects of CNT-based sensors and their potential applications.

Non-enzymatic amperometric glucose sensing on CuO/mesoporous TiO2 modified glassy carbon electrode

The present study illustrates the fabrication of a glucose sensing electrode based upon binary composite of copper oxide and mesoporous titanium dioxide on glassy carbon (CuO/TiO2/GCE). The X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis evidently showed the phase pure monoclinic CuO nanoparticles and anatase TiO2. N2 adsorption-desorption analysis verified the mesoporosity in TiO2 with specific surface area greater than 105 m2 g-1. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis proved the remarkable decrease in the charge transfer resistance and facilitation of electron transfer process on the fabricated electrode. The optimum weight ratio of CuO to TiO2 was 1 : 1, and the optimum potential was 0.6 V vs. saturated calomel electrode. The chronoamperometric measurements displayed a detection limit of 1.9 μM, and sensitivities of 186.67 μA mM-1 cm-2 and 90.53 μA mM-1 cm-2 in two linear ranges of 0.05 to 5.2 mM and 5.2 to 20 mM, respectively. The amperometric analysis further showed good reproducibility, high specificity and outstanding stability of the modified electrode.

Microneedle-based glucose monitoring: a review from sampling methods to wearable biosensors

Blood glucose (BG) monitoring is critical for diabetes management. In recent years, microneedle (MN)-based technology has attracted emerging attention in glucose sensing and detection. In this review, we summarized MN-based sampling for glucose collection and glucose analysis in detail. First, different principles of MN-based biofluid extraction were elaborated, including external negative pressure, capillary force, swelling force and iontophoresis, which would guide the shape design and material optimization of MNs. Second, MNs coupled with different analysis approaches, including Raman methods, colorimetry, fluorescence, and electrochemical sensing, were emphasized to exhibit the trend towards highly integrated wearable sensors. Finally, the future development prospects of MN-based devices were discussed.

Characterization of Benchtop-Fabricated Arrays of Nanowrinkled Surface Electrodes as a Nitric Oxide Electrochemical Sensor

In this work, we present an accessible benchtop fabrication technique to obtain a planar array of gold nanowrinkled surface electrodes (ANSE) for the construction of electrochemical cells, specifically to monitor soluble biomarkers of interest in cell culture environments. We present a complete characterization of the array and its response as an electrochemical cell. To validate our sensor, we evaluated the device sensitivity to detect nitric oxide (NO), an important molecule produced by endothelial cells as a response to environmental signals such as mechanics and growth factors. While testing measurements of nitric oxide in aqueous solutions with isotonic salt concentrations, we evidenced the influence of the environmental conditions for such electrochemical measurements, showing that the aqueous medium, usually not accounted for, significantly impacts the outcome. Finally, we present the application of the electrochemical sensor for the detection of nitric oxide released from stimulated endothelial cells as a proof of concept.

An electrochemical microfluidic device for non-enzymatic cholesterol determination using a lab-made disposable electrode

Cholesterol is an important steroid and hormone precursor, and its levels in the blood are associated with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. In this work, a non-enzymatic methodology for cholesterol determination in serum samples is described. First, a working electrode was constructed using homemade ink and a plastic substrate by a simple dunking process. Next, the dunked electrode (DWE) was modified with nickel ions (Ni-DWE) and combined with a low-cost microfluidic platform, resulting in a thread-based electroanalytical device (μTED). The arrangement of μTED consists of two coupled electrodes (one reference in the inlet reservoir and an auxiliary electrode against the outlet reservoir) and a mobile support for facile working electrode exchange. After optimization of construction parameters, the system was applied for non-enzymatic determination of cholesterol under alkaline conditions using the redox pair Ni(II)/Ni(III) as a mediator. Under the best analytical conditions, a calibration curve was constructed with a linear dynamic range (LDR) from 0.25 to 25.0 μmol L^-1, and the calculated limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 0.074 and 0.24 μmol L^-1, respectively. No effects of possible interferents on electrochemical response were found in the presence of ascorbic acid, uric acid, dopamine, cysteine, and glucose, suggesting that the proposed device can be used for the determination of cholesterol without significant matrix effects of human plasma. Finally, cholesterol analysis was carried out using spiked plasma samples, and good recovery values were achieved.

Theoretical study on the adsorption and oxidation of glucose on Au(111) surface

CONTEXT

While Au-based catalysts recently have shown tremendous potential in glucose oxidation to gluconic acid, the detailed reaction mechanism is still unclear, which impedes the development of direct glucose fuel cell (DGFC).

METHODS

Using density functional theory (DFT), we exhibit some new adsorption configurations and oxidation mechanisms by considering both the open chain form and the ring form of glucose on Au(111) surface in the presence of OH. The strong interactions between glucose and the OH adsorbed surface are obtained. Moreover, form the calculated energy pathways, the oxidation of glucose in the open chain involves the dissociation of the formyl C - H bond by the adsorbed OH, while the ring form glucose oxidation is initiated by O - H bond rupture rather than C - H bond scission and preferentially undergoes the ring-open process to generate the open chain form glucose. Meanwhile, the results demonstrate that the adsorbed OH assists in reducing the activation energy of reaction process.

Pt Nanoflowers as a Highly Effective Electrocatalyst for Glucose Oxidation in Abiotic Glucose Fuel Cells

Self-powered implantable medical devices (IMDs) without any external power supply are desired in a growing number of situations. Glucose fuel cells (GFCs) that convert the chemical energy of intrinsic glucose and oxygen into electricity are promising technology to achieve this goal. Herein, a Pt nanoflower (Pt NF) catalyst is prepared by using a facile one-step reduction method and employed as the anode catalyst for abiotic GFCs in a neutral environment at a physiological concentration of glucose. The Pt NF catalyst exhibits high electrocatalytic activity, catalytic selectivity, and good durability in the electrochemical analysis. The Pt NF's rapid linear current response to the variation of glucose concentration within a wide range also makes it a promising material for glucose sensors. A GFC with two chambers fabricated with a Pt NF catalyst-decorated carbon paper (Pt NFs/CP) anode and a Pt sheet cathode generates a maximum power density (P_max) of 13.8 μW cm^-2, an open-circuit voltage (V_OC) of 819.5 mV, and a short-circuit current density (J_SC) of 0.12 mA cm^-2, which makes it a viable candidate for application in self-powered devices.

Ultra-thin 2D bimetallic MOF nanosheets for highly sensitive and stable detection of glucose in sweat for dancer

The measurement of glucose concentration in sweat is expected to replace the existing blood glucose detection, which realize the effective way of non-invasive monitoring of human glucose concentration in dancing. High precision glucose detection can be achieved by adjusting the electrode material of the sensor. Thus, in this work, the bimetallic organic frameworks (bi-MOFs) materials containing Mn and Ni ions (NiMn-MOF) with ultrathin nanosheets have been exquisitely designed. The ultrathin nanosheet and heterogeneous metal ions in the structure optimize the electronic structure, which improves the electrical conductivity of MOFs. The success of the preparation strategy leads the good electrocatalytic performance of NiMn-MOF for glucose detection. Detailedly, NiMn-MOF shows high sensitivity of 1576 μA mM-1 cm-2 in the linear range from 0 to 0.205 mM and the wide linear region of 0.255-2.655 mM and 3.655-5.655 mM were also observed. In addition, the high repeatability, reproductivity, long-term stability and ultra-low limited of detection (LOD, 0.28 μM, S/N = 3) provide foundation for the practical sensor application of this NiMn-MOF nanosheets. Remarkably, as designed NiMn-MOF sensor can accurately measure glucose in sweat showing great potential in the field of wearable glucose monitoring during dancing.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Enabled by Fluorescent Nanodiamond Boronic Hydrogel

Continuous monitoring of glucose allows diabetic patients to better maintain blood glucose level by altering insulin dosage or diet according to prevailing glucose values and thus to prevent potential hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. However, current continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) relies mostly on enzyme electrodes or micro-dialysis probes, which suffer from insufficient stability, susceptibility to corrosion of electrodes, weak or inconsistent correlation, and inevitable interference. A fluorescence-based glucose sensor in the skin will likely be more stable, have improved sensitivity, and can resolve the issues of electrochemical interference from the tissue. This study develops a fluorescent nanodiamond boronic hydrogel system in porous microneedles for CGM. Fluorescent nanodiamond is one of the most photostable fluorophores with superior biocompatibility. When surface functionalized, the fluorescent nanodiamond can integrate with boronic polymer and form a hydrogel, which can produce fluorescent signals in response to environmental glucose concentration. In this proof-of-concept study, the strategy for building a miniatured device with fluorescent nanodiamond hydrogel is developed. The device demonstrates remarkable long-term photo and signal stability in vivo with both small and large animal models. This study presents a new strategy of fluorescence based CGM toward treatment and control of diabetes.

Innovations in the synthesis of graphene nanostructures for bio and gas sensors

Sensors play a significant role in modern technologies and devices used in industries, hospitals, healthcare, nanotechnology, astronomy, and meteorology. Sensors based upon nanostructured materials have gained special attention due to their high sensitivity, precision accuracy, and feasibility. This review discusses the fabrication of graphene-based biosensors and gas sensors, which have highly efficient performance. Significant developments in the synthesis routes to fabricate graphene-based materials with improved structural and surface properties have boosted their utilization in sensing applications. The higher surface area, better conductivity, tunable structure, and atom-thick morphology of these hybrid materials have made them highly desirable for the fabrication of flexible and stable sensors. Many publications have reported various modification approaches to improve the selectivity of these materials. In the current work, a compact and informative review focusing on the most recent developments in graphene-based biosensors and gas sensors has been designed and delivered. The research community has provided a complete critical analysis of the most robust case studies from the latest fabrication routes to the most complex challenges. Some significant ideas and solutions have been proposed to overcome the limitations regarding the field of biosensors and hazardous gas sensors.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrochemical Evaluation of Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles and Their Application for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Detection in Blood Samples

Glutathione-capped copper sulfide (CuxSy) nanoparticles with two different average sizes were successfully achieved by using a simple reduction process that involves only changing the reaction temperature. Temperature-induced changes in the size of CuxSy nanoparticles resulted in particles with different optical, morphological, and electrochemical properties. The dependence of electrochemical sensing properties on the sizes of CuxSy nanoparticles was studied by using voltammetric and amperometric techniques. The spherical CuxSy nanoparticles with the average particle size of 25 ± 0.6 nm were found to be highly conductive as compared to CuxSy nanoparticles with the average particle size of 4.5 ± 0.2 nm. The spherical CuxSy nanoparticles exhibited a low bandgap energy (Eg) of 1.87 eV, resulting in superior electrochemical properties and improved electron transfer during glucose detection. The sensor showed a very good electrocatalytic activity toward glucose molecules in the presence of interference species such as uric acid (UA), ascorbic acid (AA), fructose, sodium chloride, and sucrose. These species are often present in low concentrations in the blood. The sensor demonstrated an excellent dynamic linear range between 0.2 to 16 mM, detection limit of 0.2 mM, and sensitivity of 0.013 mA/mM. The applicability of the developed sensor for real field determination of glucose was demonstrated by use of spiked blood samples, which confirmed that the developed sensor had great potential for real analysis of blood glucose levels.

A Conductive Hydrogel Microneedle-Based Assay Integrating PEDOT:PSS and Ag-Pt Nanoparticles for Real-Time, Enzyme-Less, and Electrochemical Sensing of Glucose

Continuous glucose meters (CGMs) have tremendously boosted diabetes care by emancipating millions of diabetic patients' need for repeated self-testing by pricking their fingers every few hours. However, CGMs still suffer from major deficiencies regarding accuracy, precision, and stability. This is mainly due to their dependency on an enzymatic detection mechanism. Here a low-cost hydrogel microneedle (HMN)-CGM assay fabricated using swellable dopamine (DA)-hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel for glucose interrogation in dermal interstitial fluid (ISF) is introduced. Platinum and silver nanoparticles are synthesized within the 3D porous hydrogel scaffolds for nonenzymatic electrochemical sensing of the glucose. Incorporation of a highly water dispersible conductive polymer, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) enhances the electrical properties of HMN array, making the patch suitable as the working electrode of the sensor. The in vitro and ex vivo characterization of this newly developed HMN patch is fully studied. The performance of the HMN-CGM for real-time measurement of glucose is also shown using a rat model of type 1 diabetes. The device introduces the first HMN-based assay for tracking important disease biomarkers and expect to pave the way for next generation of polymeric-based sensors.

Synergistic Effect of Composite Nickel Phosphide Nanoparticles and Carbon Fiber on the Enhancement of Salivary Enzyme-Free Glucose Sensing

An electrospinning method was used for the preparation of an in situ composite based on Ni₂P nanoparticles and carbon fiber (FC). The material was tested for the first time against direct glucose oxidation reaction. The Ni₂P nanoparticles were distributed homogeneously throughout the carbon fibers with a composition determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of 40 wt% Ni₂P and 60 wt% carbon fiber without impurities in the sample. The electrochemical measurement results indicate that the GCE/FC/Ni₂P in situ sensor exhibits excellent catalytic activity compared to the GCE/Ni₂P and GCE/FC/Ni₂P ex situ electrodes. The GCE/FC/Ni₂P in situ sensor presents a sensitivity of 1050 µAmM^-1cm^-2 in the range of 5-208 µM and a detection limit of 0.25 µM. The sensor was applied for glucose detection in artificial saliva, with a low interference observed from normally coexisting electroactive species. In conclusion, our sensor represents a novel and analytical competitive alternative for the development of non-enzymatic glucose sensors in the future.

Progress of Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Biosensor Based on Nanomaterial-Modified Electrode

This review covers the progress of nanomaterial-modified electrodes for enzymatic and non-enzymatic glucose biosensors. Fundamental insights into glucose biosensor components and the crucial factors controlling the electrochemical performance of glucose biosensors are discussed in detail. The metal, metal oxide, and hybrid/composite nanomaterial fabrication strategies for the modification of electrodes, mechanism of detection, and significance of the nanomaterials toward the electrochemical performance of enzymatic and non-enzymatic glucose biosensors are compared and comprehensively reviewed. This review aims to provide readers with an overview and underlying concept of producing a reliable, stable, cost-effective, and excellent electrochemical performance of a glucose biosensor.

CuO Nanowires Fabricated by Thermal Oxidation of Cu Foils towards Electrochemical Detection of Glucose

In view of the various stability issues and high cost of enzymatic glucose biosensors, non-enzymatic biosensors have received great attention in recent research and development. Copper oxide (CuO) nanowires (NWs) were fabricated on Cu foil substrate using a simple thermal oxidation method. The phase and morphology of the CuO NWs could be controlled by synthesis temperature. Variation in oxidation states enables CuO NWs to form Cu (III) species, which is crucial in catalysing the eletro-oxidation of glucose. The Cu-based metal/oxide composite electrode works as a non-enzymatic biosensor that adapts to the fast, dynamic change in glucose concentration, with a low saturation concentration (~0.7 mM) and a lower detection limit of 0.1 mM, making CuO NWs an excellent sensor towards impaired fasting glucose. The simplicity, cost-effectiveness and non-toxicity features of this study might make a way for potentially scalable application in glucose biosensing.

A Review on Non-Enzymatic Electrochemical Biosensors of Glucose Using Carbon Nanofiber Nanocomposites

Diabetes mellitus has become a worldwide epidemic, and it is expected to become the seventh leading cause of death by 2030. In response to the increasing number of diabetes patients worldwide, glucose biosensors with high sensitivity and selectivity have been developed for rapid detection. The selectivity, high sensitivity, simplicity, and quick response of electrochemical biosensors have made them a popular choice in recent years. This review summarizes the recent developments in electrodes for non-enzymatic glucose detection using carbon nanofiber (CNF)-based nanocomposites. The electrochemical performance and limitations of enzymatic and non-enzymatic glucose biosensors are reviewed. Then, the recent developments in non-enzymatic glucose biosensors using CNF composites are discussed. The final section of the review provides a summary of the challenges and perspectives, for progress in non-enzymatic glucose biosensors.

The Synthesis of Carbon Black-Loaded Pt Concave Nanocubes with High-Index Facets and Their Enhanced Electrocatalytic Properties toward Glucose Oxidation

Catalysts with high catalytic activity and good stability are desirable in the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose. Herein, Pt concave nanocubes with high-index facets (HIFs) supported by carbon black (Pt CNC/CB) are prepared through a hydrothermal method. The experimental results demonstrate that the peak current densities in different potential regions on the Pt CNC/CB anode are 0.22, 0.20, and 0.60 mA cm^-2. The catalytic process of the glucose oxidation reaction is investigated in electrolytes with different pH values. Better stability is achieved by Pt CNC/CB than by Pt concave nanocubes (Pt CNCs). Abundant surface defects with low-coordinated atom numbers, such as steps, kinks, and edges, served as active sites in the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose. With the addition of carbon black, the catalytic activity can be improved by facilitating the full exposure of the active surface defects on the HIFs of the Pt CNCs. Moreover, to address the aggregation of Pt CNCs, caused by the high surface energy of HIFs, the introduction of carbon material is an effective way to preserve the HIFs and thus enhance the stability of the catalyst. Hence, the prepared Pt CNC/CB electrocatalyst has great potential to be applied in the electrooxidation of glucose.

High-Linearity Hydrogel-Based Capacitive Sensor Based on Con A-Sugar Affinity and Low-Melting-Point Metal

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) plays an important role in the treatment of diabetes. Affinity sensing based on the principle of reversible binding to glucose does not produce intermediates, and the specificity of concanavalin A (Con A) to glucose molecules helps to improve the anti-interference performance and long-term stability of CGM sensors. However, these affinity glucose sensors have some limitations in their linearity with a large detection range, and stable attachment of hydrogels to sensor electrodes is also challenging. In this study, a capacitive glucose sensor with high linearity and a wide detection range was proposed based on a glucose-responsive DexG-Con A hydrogel and a serpentine coplanar electrode made from a low-melting-point metal. The results show that within the glucose concentration range of 0-20 mM, the sensor can achieve high linearity (R2 = 0.94), with a sensitivity of 33.3 pF mM-1, and even with the larger glucose concentration range of 0-30 mM the sensor can achieve good linearity (R2 = 0.84). The sensor also shows resistance to disturbances of small molecules, good reversibility, and long-term stability. Due to its low cost, wide detection range, high linearity, good sensitivity, and biocompatibility, the sensor is expected to be used in the field of continuous monitoring of blood glucose.

Investigation of glucose electrooxidation mechanism over N-modified metal-doped graphene electrode by density functional theory approach

In this work, various precious and non-precious metals reported in the literature as the most effective catalysts for glucose electrooxidation reaction were investigated by the density functional theory (DFT) approach in order to reveal the mechanisms taking place over the catalysts in the fuel cell. The use of a single-atom catalyst model was adopted by insertion of one Au, Cu, Ni, Pd, Pt, and Zn metal atom on the pyridinic N atoms doped graphene surface (NG). β form of d-glucose in alkaline solution was used to determine the reaction mechanism and intermediates that formed during the reaction. DFT results showed that the desired glucono-lactone was formed on the Cu-3NG electrode in a single-step reaction pathway whereas it was produced via different two-step pathways on the Au and Pt-3NG electrodes. Although the interaction of glucose with Ni, Pd, and Zn-doped surfaces resulted in the deprotonation of the molecule, lactone product formation did not occur on these electrode surfaces. When the calculation results are evaluated in terms of energy content and product formation, it can be concluded that Cu, Pt, and especially Au doped graphene catalysts are effective for direct glucose oxidation in fuel cells reactor.

An extended gate field-effect transistor (EG-FET) type non-enzymatic glucose sensor with inkjet-printed copper oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

We develop a disposable and cost-effective non-enzymatic glucose sensor consisting of an extended gate field effect transistor (EG-FET) to obtain effortless operation. The sensor is fabricated by printing, gold (Au) precursor ink and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) inks using a commercial inkjet printer on a flexible Polyimide (PI) substrate. First, sensing properties are tested electrochemically. The sensor shows a sensitivity of 728.5 μA cm−2 mM−1 and a detection limit of 0.01 mM with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.998. The observed linear dynamic range is from 0.5 to 7 mM. After that, the sensing electrode is adapted to the EG-FET. Two linear response ranges extend from 0.1 to 4 mM of a low concentration range of glucose with a sensitivity of 1295 μA cm−2 mM−1, and from 5 to 30 mM of a high concentration range of glucose with a sensitivity of 164 μA cm−2 mM−1 are observed. The EG-FET approach can enhance the detection sensitivities using amplification for a low concentration glucose range and extending a detection range for high concentration glucose. The presented work demonstrates that simply printed CuO NPs sensors can be used at low cost for disposable wide-range glucose detection devices.

Article Highlights

Microneedle-Based Glucose Sensor Platform: From Vitro to Wearable Point-of-Care Testing Systems

Significant advanced have recently been made in exploiting microneedle-based (MN-based) diabetes devices for minimally invasive wearable biosensors and for continuous glucose monitoring. Within this emerging class of skin-worn MN-based sensors, the ISF can be utilized as a rich biomarker source to diagnose diabetes. While initial work of MN devices focused on ISF extraction, the recent research trend has been oriented toward developing in vivo glucose sensors coupled with optical or electrochemical (EC) instrumentation. This outlook highlights the essential characteristics of the sensing mechanisms, rational design, sensing properties, and applications. Finally, we describe the opinions about the challenge and prospects of optical and EC MN-based device platforms for the fabrication of wearable biosensors and their application potential in the future.

Layered double hydroxide-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications

Against the backdrop of increased public health awareness, inorganic nanomaterials have been widely explored as promising nanoagents for various kinds of biomedical applications. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs), with versatile physicochemical advantages including excellent biocompatibility, pH-sensitive biodegradability, highly tunable chemical composition and structure, and ease of composite formation with other materials, have shown great promise in biomedical applications. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the recent advances in LDH-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Firstly, the material categories and advantages of LDH-based nanomaterials are discussed. The preparation and surface modification of LDH-based nanomaterials, including pristine LDHs, LDH-based nanocomposites and LDH-derived nanomaterials, are then described. Thereafter, we systematically describe the great potential of LDHs in biomedical applications including drug/gene delivery, bioimaging diagnosis, cancer therapy, biosensing, tissue engineering, and anti-bacteria. Finally, on the basis of the current state of the art, we conclude with insights on the remaining challenges and future prospects in this rapidly emerging field.

Protein templated Au-CuO bimetallic nanoclusters toward neutral glucose sensing

In this study, the application of bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a carrier to glucose-sensitive materials for the detection of glucose was proposed. Au-CuO bimetallic nanoclusters (Au-CuO/BSA) were prepared using BSA as a template, the new sensing material (Au-CuO/BSA/MWCNTs) was synthesized by mixing with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and applied to non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors to detect glucose stably and effectively under neutral condition. The scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate the morphology of the synthesized nanocomposite. The electrochemical properties of the sensor were studied by cyclic voltammetry. Glucose detection experiments show that Au-CuO/BSA/MWCNTs/Au electrode has good glucose detection ability, stability, accuracy, repeatability, and high selectivity in neutral environment. Unlike existing glucose-sensitive materials, due to the use of BSA, the composite material is firmly fixed to the electrode surface without a Nafion solution, which reduces the current blocking effect on the modified electrode. The composite materials can be effectively preserved for extremely long periods, higher than 80% activity is maintained at room temperature in a closed environment for 3 to 4 months, due to the special effects of BSA. In addition, the feasibility of using BSA in glucose-sensitive materials is confirmed.

Tunable Switching Behavior of GO-Based Memristors Using Thermal Reduction

This work reports on the fabrication of a novel planar reduced graphene oxide (rGO) memristor (MR) device. For the first time in the literature, the MR tunable resistive switching behavior is controlled by the GO reduction time at a constant temperature. The device is fabricated using standard microfabrication techniques on a flexible cyclic olefin copolymer substrate (COC). Thermal reduction of the GO layer at low temperatures (100 °C) avoids the drawbacks of chemical reduction methods such as toxicity and electrode metal damage during fabrication, while allowing for fine-tuning of the MR’s switching behavior. The device has analog switching characteristics, with a range of different resistance states. By taking advantage of the slow nature of GO thermal annealing, the switching properties of the rGO memristors can be precisely controlled by adjusting the reduction period. At short annealing times (i.e., T < 20 h), the devices switch from high to low resistance states, while at longer annealing times the switching behavior is reversed, with the device switching from low to high resistance states (LRS to HRS). Resistive switching occurs as a result of the diffusion and removal of the oxygen functional groups in the GO film caused by Joule heating induced by the electric current. Complete electrical characterization tests are presented along with wettability and X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests. This work opens a new vision for realizing rGO-based MR devices with tunable switching properties, broadening the application horizon of the device.

Recent Advancement in Biofluid-Based Glucose Sensors Using Invasive, Minimally Invasive, and Non-Invasive Technologies: A Review

Biosensors have potentially revolutionized the biomedical field. Their portability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of operation have made the market for these biosensors to grow rapidly. Diabetes mellitus is the condition of having high glucose content in the body, and it has become one of the very common conditions that is leading to deaths worldwide. Although it still has no cure or prevention, if monitored and treated with appropriate medication, the complications can be hindered and mitigated. Glucose content in the body can be detected using various biological fluids, namely blood, sweat, urine, interstitial fluids, tears, breath, and saliva. In the past decade, there has been an influx of potential biosensor technologies for continuous glucose level estimation. This literature review provides a comprehensive update on the recent advances in the field of biofluid-based sensors for glucose level detection in terms of methods, methodology and materials used.

Electrochemical enzyme-based blood ATP and lactate sensor for a rapid and straightforward evaluation of illness severity

This study aimed to develop an electrochemical system for measuring blood ATP and lactate levels in a single format. The ratio of lactate to ATP levels was previously reported to provide an alternative illness severity score. Although severity evaluation is crucial to treat patients with acute disease admitted to intensive care units, no sensors are currently available to simply and rapidly measure ATP and lactate levels using the same detection method. Therefore, we constructed an integrated sensing system for ATP and lactate using enzymatic reactions and two sets of electrodes integrated into a chip connected to a single potentiostat operated by a microcontroller. The enzymatic system involves adenylate kinase, pyruvate kinase, and pyruvate oxidase for ATP, and lactate oxidase for lactate, both of which produce hydrogen peroxide. Multiplex enzyme-based reactions were designed to minimize the corresponding operations significantly without enzyme immobilization onto the electrodes. The system was robust in the presence of potentially interfering blood components, such as ascorbate, pyruvate, ADP, urate, and potassium ions. The ATP and lactate levels in the blood were successfully measured using the new sensor with good recoveries. The analytical results of blood samples obtained using our sensor were in good agreement with those using conventional methods. Integrating electrode-based analysis and a microcontroller-based system saved further operations, enabling the straightforward measurement of ATP and lactate levels within 5 min. The proposed sensor may serve as a useful tool in the management of serious infectious diseases.

Binder free 3D core-shell NiFe layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets (NSs) supported on Cu foam as a highly efficient non-enzymatic glucose sensor

Rational design with fine-tuning of the electrocatalyst material is vital for achieving the desired sensitivity, selectivity, and stability for an electrochemical sensor. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical core-shell catalyst was employed as a self-standing, binder-free electrode for non-enzymatic glucose sensing. The catalyst was prepared by decorating the shell of NiFe layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets (NSs) on the core of Cu nanowires (NWs) grown on a Cu foam support. The optimized 3D core-shell Cu@NiFe LDH sensor demonstrated higher sensitivity (7.88 mA mM^-1cm^-2), lower limit of detection (0.10 µM) and wider linear range (1 µM to 0.9 mM) in glucose sensing with a low working potential (0.4 V). The applied sensor also showed excellent stability, reproducibility, interference ability as well as practicability in real environment. The detection of real samples further suggests its great feasibility for practical applications. The superior electrocatalytic performance is collectively ascribed to the excellent electro-conductivity of the Cu substrate, the distinct self-standing 3D porous nanostructure, the ultrathin homogenous architecture, and the appropriate loading amount of NiFe LDH NSs. This study then provides a non-enzymatic glucose sensor with 3D Cu@NiFe LDH electrode for ultrahigh sensitivity and stability.

High-Performance Three-Dimensional Spongin-Atacamite Biocomposite for Electrochemical Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensing

The design of sensitive and cost-effective biocomposite materials with high catalytic activity for the effective electrooxidation of glucose plays a key role in developing enzyme-free glucose sensors. The porous three-dimensional (3D) spongin scaffold of marine sponge origin provides an excellent template for the growth of atacamite crystals and improves the activity of atacamite as a catalyst. By using the design of experiment method, the influence of different parameters on the electrode efficiency was optimized. The optimized sensor based on spongin-atacamite showed distinguished performance toward glucose with two linear ranges of 0.4-200 μM and 0.2-10 mM and high sensitivities of 3908.4 and 600.5 μA mM^-1 cm^-2, respectively. Importantly, the designed sensor exhibited strong selectivity and favorable stability, reproducibility, and repeatability. The performance in the real application was estimated by glucose detection in spiked human blood serum samples, which verified its great potential as a reliable platform for enzyme-free glucose sensing.