Liquid Biopsy-Based Smart Sensors for Ovarian Cancer Detection

Ovarian cancer is one of the most aggressive gynecologic malignancies, with a vast majority of patients diagnosed at advanced stages owing to the lack of available early detection methods. Liquid biopsy, a noninvasive method for detecting circulating biomarkers such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), exosomes, and a wide range of non-coding RNAs (including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs), enables the detection of ovarian cancer using composite biomarker panels tailored for disease specificity. Liquid biopsy-based diagnostics have also made a significant leap forward in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and real-time monitoring due to integration of smart sensor technology. To meet the challenge of sensitivity, highly specific bioelectrical and electrochemical, optical as well and nanomaterial-based sensors have been developed to detect ovarian cancer biomarkers within minutes that are cost-effective and scalable. The progress of Lab-on-Chip technologies, nano-bio sensing systems, and artificial intelligence-driven diagnostic models have further redefined this field by increasing biomarker detection and facilitating clinical decision-making efficiencies. This review discusses the state-of-the-art of liquid biopsy in smart sensors, their fundamentals, and the breakthroughs of these technologies of interest for ovarian cancer detection. Moreover, both clinical utility and regulatory hurdles of this biosensing will be interpreted to decipher the translational readiness for broad clinical application. The smart biosensors will continue to evolve, determining the future of ovarian cancer diagnostics by providing early detection and personalized treatment options and quality of life for patients.