Label-Free Electrochemical Biosensors: An Updated Perspective Focused on Genosensing, Multiplexing, and Commercial...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Rising prevalence of infectious, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases necessitates advanced diagnostic solutions.
• Label-free electrochemical biosensors present a promising avenue for sensitive, cost-effective, and miniaturized point-of-care (PoC) testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in label-free electrochemical biosensors for disease diagnostics.
• To critically assess the barriers hindering the translation of these biosensors from proof-of-concept to real-world applications.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of immobilization strategies, biorecognition elements (DNA, antibodies, aptamers, MIPs), and electrode platforms (glassy carbon, screen-printed, 3D-printed).
• Focus on DNA biosensors, multiplexed systems, and disease biomarker applications.
• Analysis of challenges including bioreceptor stability, real-sample validation, materials, manufacturing, and integration.

Main Results:

• Significant progress in sensitivity, reproducibility, and application to real samples has been demonstrated.
• Key challenges identified include bioreceptor stability, limited validation in complex matrices, and manufacturing scalability.
• Most devices remain at the proof-of-concept stage due to integration and commercialization hurdles.

Conclusions:

• Electrochemical biosensors show great potential for decentralized diagnostics but face significant translational barriers.
• Further research is needed to address bioreceptor stability, real-world validation, and scalable manufacturing for successful commercialization.