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Femtogram-level VEGF detection via PEG-directed gold nanostructured electrochemical immunosensor.
Badrossadat Mirmohamadi1, Ahmad Moshaii2,3, Sadaf Yarjoo1
1Department of Physics, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 14115-175, Tehran, Iran.
Scientific Reports
|December 19, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a novel electrochemical immunosensor for sensitive vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) detection. The gold nanostructure sensor shows promise for early cancer diagnostics due to its high sensitivity and broad detection range.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is crucial in angiogenesis and tumor progression.
- Early cancer diagnostics require highly sensitive detection methods for biomarkers like VEGF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel electrochemical immunosensor for ultrasensitive detection of VEGF.
- To investigate the role of gold nanostructures and PEG mediation in sensor performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of gold nanostructures on FTO electrodes using a PEG-mediated electrochemical process.
- Two-step immobilization strategy involving PVD, thermal annealing, and electrochemical modification.
- Antibody functionalization for specific VEGF binding.
Main Results:
- PEG-mediated growth produced irregular nanorods and dendrites, enhancing sensor performance.
- Ultrasensitive detection limit of 6 fg/mL for VEGF.
- Broad linear detection range (10 fg/mL to 10⁵ fg/mL) with excellent reproducibility.
Conclusions:
- The developed electrochemical immunosensor offers high sensitivity and stability for VEGF detection.
- This platform holds significant potential for early cancer diagnostics.
- The nanostructure morphology controlled by PEG mediation is key to improved sensor performance.
