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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

06:18
Mapping Metabolism: Monitoring Lactate Dehydrogenase Activity Directly in Tissue
Published on: June 21, 2018
Affinity sensors for L-lactate and lactate dehydrogenase
1Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada. liujw@uwaterloo.ca.
Analytical Methods : Advancing Methods and Applications
|June 16, 2026
Summary
New affinity sensors offer stable, cost-effective L-lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) monitoring. These biosensors show promise for accurate, continuous detection in sports and clinical diagnostics, overcoming limitations of traditional enzyme-based methods.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- L-lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are vital biomarkers in human body fluids.
- Current enzyme-based sensors for L-lactate and LDH have stability, operational, and cost limitations.
- Affinity-based sensors present a promising alternative for metabolite and enzyme detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advancements in affinity sensors for L-lactate and LDH detection.
- To highlight novel aptamer-based biosensors for L-lactate and LDH.
- To discuss the potential of these sensors for diverse diagnostic applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on aptamer selection and characterization for L-lactate.
- Summarization of antibody- and aptamer-based assays for LDH detection.
- Discussion of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based sensors and other probes.
Main Results:
- Development of the first L-lactate aptamers and their integration into wearable electrochemical devices.
- Demonstration of sensitive and selective affinity sensors for both L-lactate and LDH.
- Exploration of potential for multiplexed and non-invasive monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Affinity sensors offer significant improvements over conventional enzyme-based methods for L-lactate and LDH detection.
- These advanced biosensors provide accurate, cost-effective, and stable solutions for clinical and sports diagnostics.
- Future developments focus on enhancing sensitivity, selectivity, and applicability in non-invasive monitoring.
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