Microliter Sample Insulin Detection Using a Screen-Printed Electrode Modified by Nickel Hydroxide

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biosensors
• Diabetes Diagnostics

Background:

• Insulin monitoring is crucial for diabetes management.
• Current methods are complex, costly, and require large sample volumes.
• There is a need for simpler, faster, and more affordable insulin detection techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a low-cost, rapid insulin detection method.
• To utilize screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) modified with nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2).
• To overcome limitations of traditional insulin monitoring techniques.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ni(OH)2-modified SPEs (NSPEs).
• Electrochemical analysis using cyclic voltammetry, amperometric i-t curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
• Testing selectivity with insulin mixtures and evaluating performance in human serum.

Main Results:

• NSPEs demonstrate high sensitivity (15.3 μA·μM-1) and a low detection limit (138 nM).
• Electrode preparation is significantly faster (∼10 min) than conventional methods.
• The method requires a small sample volume (∼300 μL) and shows good selectivity.

Conclusions:

• The NSPE-based method offers a promising, cost-effective approach for insulin detection.
• Its speed, sensitivity, and minimal sample requirement support potential clinical applications.
• This technique could aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes.