Single-atom electrocatalysts templated by MOF for determination of levodopa

To overcome the problem of incorrect levodopa (LD) dosage in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, a new analytical tool is urgently needed for accurately determining the concentration of LD in human fluids. Herein, an effective and stable sensor based on a Co-single-atomic-site catalyst (Co-SASC)-modified glassy carbon electrode (Co-SASC/GCE) was developed for the determination of LD concentration. The physicochemical characterization of Co-SASC is systematically investigated. It has excellent thermal stability, graphitization degree, and a large specific surface area. Benefiting from its porous structure for kinetically fast catalysis and component advantages for fix a single cobalt atom to improve stability, Co-SASC/GCE exhibits a superior electrochemical response. Under optimal conditions (pH 2.0, coating amount is 10 μg), an ideal linear relationship is achieved between the logarithm of the peak current of the sensor and the logarithm of LD concentration. The linear range is 0.1-200 μM, and the limit of detection (LOD) is 0.033 μM. After a simple pretreatment, LD in human serum is detected by Co-SASC/GCE with excellent stability and selectivity. As such, this work enlarges the existing electrochemical sensor toolbox by offering a reasonable design and synthesis protocol for advanced materials to accurately determine LD in human fluids for the clinical treatment of Parkinson's disease.