Small-Molecule Detection in Biological Fluids: The Emerging Role of Potentiometric Biosensors

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Small molecule detection in biological fluids is crucial for disease diagnosis and monitoring.
• Traditional biosensing methods often require complex equipment and lengthy sample preparation.
• Potentiometric biosensors present a simpler, label-free alternative for in-situ biological analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in potentiometric biosensing for small molecule detection.
• To highlight progress in solid-contact materials, sensing membranes, and device miniaturization.
• To discuss challenges and future strategies for potentiometric biosensor development.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on potentiometric biosensor technology.
• Focus on novel solid-contact materials and advanced sensing membranes.
• Analysis of compact device designs and integration with digital processing.

Main Results:

• Emerging solid-contact materials and nanostructured interfaces enhance sensor performance.
• Antifouling coatings and calibration-free strategies address biofouling and signal drift.
• Integration with AI and flexible electronics paves the way for personalized diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• Potentiometric biosensors are a versatile platform for next-generation biomedical analysis.
• Continued innovation in materials, design, and data processing is key to overcoming current limitations.
• These sensors hold significant promise for point-of-care diagnostics and personalized medicine.