Recent Developments in Electrochemical Sensors for Monitoring Neurotransmitters

Endogenous chemical messengers, known as neurotransmitters (NTs), have a variety of essential functions in the nervous system. It is a crucial neuronal transfer signaling medium that also affects physiological states. However, psychiatric, physical, and neurological conditions such as Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome (GTS), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism are associated with abnormal levels. As a result, it is crucial to detect them with precision and sensitivity. A common and practical technique for detecting electroactive NTs, or those that can be combined with electroactive processes, is the use of electrochemical sensors. Complex sample processing and the need for real-time diagnosis often limit the application of these methods. Therefore, electrochemical sensing, which has gained widespread popularity in recent years through advanced electrode designs that utilize 2D and 3D nanomaterials, DNA, aptamers, and polymers for detecting neurotransmitters, offers a promising approach, demonstrating enhanced sensitivity and selectivity, and the ability to operate in complex biological environments. This review highlights effective electrochemical sensors that have benefited from advances in electrode materials and recent developments. These sensors offer significant improvements in analytical performance and meet future demands for detecting NTs. Also highlighted are advances in biosensors, smart wearable devices, and other technologies for real-time applications, such as portable diagnostics in clinics for future NT assessment. These developments enable electrochemical sensing in clinical diagnosis and neuroscience.