CHELE01

Journal Review #2
An article by Krishnan (2020) reviews how researchers are striving to develop user-friendly, point-
of-care sensors capable of monitoring ultra-low levels of biomarkers for both large and small
molecules. It focuses on the development of electrochemical sensors, which have shown immense
promise in detecting biomarkers associated with various health conditions. These sensors offer
several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, sensitivity, and selectivity. One of the key
achievements of this research is the detection of picomolar levels of diabetes-relevant insulin. The
sensors demonstrated their capability in 2-fold diluted serum and 20-times diluted whole blood
samples. Achieving such high sensitivity in minimally invasive ways is a significant breakthrough.
What sets these electrochemical sensors apart is their ability to detect both small and large molecules
in various biofluids. For instance, they can detect low parts-per-billion (ppb) levels of formaldehyde
in 10-fold diluted urine and 20-fold diluted serum autoantibodies. This versatility is invaluable in
clinical diagnostics, where a wide range of biomarkers need to be monitored to assess health
conditions accurately.
The credibility of these electrochemical sensors is reinforced by the rigorous validation process.
Independent validations with surface plasmon resonance binding assays and commercial biological
assays were carried out, demonstrating their reliability. Furthermore, these sensors were compared
with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry methods, reaffirming their accuracy. The correlation
between the electrochemical approach and established methods is a testament to their efficacy in
biomarker detection.
The sensors reviewed are also user-friendly. They are designed for point-of-care use, meaning
healthcare providers can use them at the bedside, eliminating the need for time-consuming
laboratory analysis. This not only expedites diagnosis but also reduces healthcare costs. Their cost-
effectiveness, in comparison to more complex analytical methods, makes them an attractive option
for widespread adoption in healthcare settings.
Surface plasmon resonance microarrays were also given a glimpse in the article. By applying the same
electrochemical surface chemistry to gold surfaces in most studies, the researchers gained valuable
insights into binding kinetics. This dual approach not only enhances our understanding of the sensor
technology but also broadens its potential applications.
In the era of COVID-19 and the looming threat of future pandemics, the research's emphasis on
tailoring sensors for infectious disease markers is timely and critical. The ability to adapt these
electrochemical sensors to a wide range of target analytes and biofluids positions them as a vital tool
in addressing diagnostic needs during ongoing and future pandemics.
In conclusion, the research on electrochemical sensors for biomarker detection represents a
significant stride in the field of healthcare diagnostics. Their sensitivity, versatility, user-friendliness,
and cost-effectiveness make them an invaluable asset in the battle against various health conditions,
including diabetes. Moreover, their potential to address infectious disease diagnostics positions them
as a key player in pandemic preparedness. As healthcare continues to evolve, these electrochemical
sensors stand out as a potential milestone for patient care and diagnostics in the future.