A Robust, Enzyme-Free Glucose Sensor Based on Lysine-Assisted CuO Nanostructures

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Electrocatalysis
• Biosensors

Background:

• Developing nanomaterials with superior electrocatalytic activity is crucial for advanced device commercialization.
• Cupric oxide (CuO) nanostructures are promising for electrochemical applications.
• Templated synthesis offers control over nanomaterial morphology and properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize unique cupric oxide (CuO) nanostructures using lysine as a soft template.
• To evaluate the electrocatalytic properties of the synthesized CuO nanostructures for glucose oxidation.
• To develop and validate an enzyme-free glucose sensor for practical applications.

Main Methods:

• Rapid hydrothermal synthesis using lysine as a soft template.
• Morphological characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD).

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized CuO nanostructures with controlled morphology.
• Demonstrated high electrocatalytic activity for glucose oxidation in alkaline media.
• Developed an enzyme-free glucose sensor with high sensitivity, selectivity, stability, and reproducibility.
• Validated the sensor's performance by quantifying glucose in human serum samples with satisfactory recovery.

Conclusions:

• Lysine-templated CuO nanostructures exhibit excellent electrocatalytic properties for glucose sensing.
• The developed enzyme-free glucose sensor is a viable alternative for clinical glucose quantification.
• The sensor's robustness, reusability, and accuracy in serum samples highlight its practical feasibility.