MicroRNA biosensors for detection of gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality. The discovery of microRNAs (miRs) and their unique role in cancer and other diseases has prompted the development of highly sensitive molecular diagnostic tools using nanomaterials as sensitive and specific biosensors. Among these, electrochemical biosensors, which are based on a simple and inexpensive design, make them desirable in clinical applications as well as a mass-produced point-of-care device. We review miR-based electrochemical biosensors in GI cancer and examine the use of nanoparticles in the evolving development of miR-based biosensors. Among these, a number of approaches including redox labeled probes, catalysts, redox intercalating agents and free redox indicators are highlighted for use in electrochemical biosensor technology.