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Colorimetric sensor modified with MXenes@MnCoZDH@Au composite nanomaterials for visualization of circulating tumor cells in lung cancer

  • 0Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, 201399, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhangye People's Hospital affiliated to Hexi University, Zhangye, 734000, China.
Analytica Chimica Acta +

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July 16, 2025

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July 16, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study presents a novel, ultrasensitive platform for detecting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) using aptamer-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles and MXene-based nanoprobes. The colorimetric sensor offers high specificity and sensitivity for early cancer diagnosis via liquid biopsy.

Area Of Science

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Cancer Diagnostics

Background

  • Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are vital biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
  • Current CTC detection methods face challenges in purity, speed, cost, and specificity.
  • Clinical application of CTCs is hindered by limitations in existing detection technologies.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To develop an ultrasensitive and visually detectable sensing platform for circulating tumor cells (CTCs).
  • To overcome the limitations of current CTC detection methods for improved clinical utility.
  • To establish a reliable tool for liquid biopsy-based cancer diagnostics.

Main Methods

  • Integration of nucleic acid aptamer-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for CTC capture.
  • Utilizing MXenes@MnCoZDH@Au NPs as signal amplifiers with peroxidase-like activity.
  • Development of a colorimetric sensing mechanism for quantitative CTC detection.

Main Results

  • The developed sensor achieved a broad detection range from 10 to 10^6 cells/mL.
  • An ultra-low detection limit of 2 cells/mL was demonstrated.
  • The platform exhibited high specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility compared to traditional methods.

Conclusions

  • The novel CTC sensing platform shows significant potential for clinical translation in cancer diagnostics.
  • This method offers a reliable and practical approach for liquid biopsy, advancing precision medicine.
  • The developed technology addresses key limitations in current CTC detection, enabling earlier and more accurate cancer assessment.

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