Affinity sensors for L-lactate and lactate dehydrogenase

L-lactate is a key metabolite and biomarker with wide range of concentrations across human body fluids. Accurate and continuous monitoring of human lactate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration is essential for sports, clinical, and diagnostic applications. Conventional enzyme-based sensors employing lactate oxidase or lactate dehydrogenase dominate current practice but face inherent limitations in stability, operating conditions, and production cost. On the other hand, affinity-based sensors can be promising alternatives. This review highlights recent advancements in affinity sensors for L-lactate and LDH detection such as the first reported L-lactate aptamers, their selection and characterization, and their integration into wearable electrochemical devices. Affinity sensors for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) detection, including aptamer- and antibody-based assays, are also summarized. Advances in protein and small-molecule probes as well as MIP-based sensors are discussed with emphasis on sensitivity, selectivity, and potential for multiplexed, non-invasive monitoring. Overall, these sensors provide crucial insights into the development of accurate, cost-effective, and stable biosensing approaches for L-lactate and LDH detection in diverse settings.