Graphene-based field-effect transistors for biosensing: where is the field heading to?

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) materials, particularly graphene, are promising for biosensing applications in field-effect transistor (FET) configurations.
• Graphene-based FETs (gFETs) offer potential for detecting bioreceptor-analyte binding events through modulation of electrical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in gFET designs for biosensing.
• To highlight strategies for optimizing gFET performance, including configuration and surface ligand selection.
• To discuss the challenges and considerations for implementing gFET biosensors in real-world applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on gFET biosensor designs.
• Analysis of different gFET configurations (back-gated, top-gated, liquid-gated).
• Evaluation of bioreceptor immobilization strategies and their impact on sensor performance.

Main Results:

• Top-gated and liquid-gated gFET configurations are increasingly dominating the field.
• gFET design and bioreceptor choice significantly influence sensor sensitivity, selectivity, and reportability.
• Successful detection of nucleic acids, proteins, and virus particles using gFET biosensors has been demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Optimized gFET designs and appropriate bioreceptor selection are essential for advancing biosensing technology.
• Addressing operational conditions, sensitivity, selectivity, and economic viability is key for widespread gFET biosensor adoption.
• Further research into gFET design and bioreceptor strategies will drive innovation in biomarker detection.