MOF-Powered MicroRNA Catch for Ultrasensitive Breast-Cancer Screening.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial biomarkers for cancer, but their low abundance and matrix interference in serum hinder accurate quantification.
• Current methods limit the clinical utility and point-of-care testing (POCT) of miRNAs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an electrochemical biosensor for specific and rapid detection of miRNAs in clinical serum samples.
• To overcome challenges in miRNA quantification for improved breast cancer diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• An electrochemical biosensor was designed integrating a UiO-66-NH2 enrichment strategy with miRNA aptamers.
• UiO-66-NH2 adsorbed aptamers for selective miRNA enrichment, followed by aptamer release using sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP).
• Released aptamers were quantified using a screen-printed electrode (SPE) electrochemical biosensor.

Main Results:

• The assay achieved rapid (<45 min) and sensitive detection of specific miRNAs (miR-21, miR-155, miR-96).
• The biosensor successfully distinguished breast-cancer patients from postoperative recovery subjects.
• Demonstrated potential for real-time health monitoring and POCT miRNA analysis.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical biosensor effectively addresses the challenges of miRNA quantification in serum.
• This technology shows significant promise for early breast cancer diagnosis and personalized health monitoring.
• The integrated enrichment and detection strategy enhances miRNA analysis for clinical applications.