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Updated: Jul 6, 2026

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Development and Functionalization of Electrolyte-Gated Graphene Field-Effect Transistor for Biomarker Detection
Published on: February 1, 2022
Label-Free Capacitive Immunosensing of Lactate Dehydrogenase and Interleukin-6 Using a Protein-Passivated Graphene
Zening Li1,2, Rongtao Zhang3, Yenan Xu1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|July 4, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel electrochemical biosensor for simultaneously detecting lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). This label-free method offers a sensitive and accessible alternative for disease biomarker quantification.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biosensor Technology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are key biomarkers for disease progression and cellular health.
- Current LDH detection methods, like colorimetric assays, require complex equipment, limiting use in resource-limited settings.
- There is a need for sensitive, label-free, and accessible methods for simultaneous biomarker detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel label-free biosensor for simultaneous detection of LDH and IL-6.
- To utilize electrochemical capacitance spectroscopy (ECS) for sensitive and direct biomarker quantification.
- To create a potential point-of-care (PoC) diagnostic tool.
Main Methods:
- Developed a capacitive sensing electrode functionalized with specific antibodies for LDH and IL-6.
- Employed a one-step modification process to create a graphene bioelectrochemical interface for antibody immobilization.
- Utilized a coplanar ITO three-electrode system for electrochemical capacitance spectroscopy (ECS) measurements.
Main Results:
- Achieved simultaneous, label-free detection of LDH and IL-6.
- Demonstrated a significant signal response over a 5-log concentration range for both biomarkers.
- The sensor showed high sensitivity and direct target recognition without labeling reagents.
Conclusions:
- Electrochemical capacitance spectroscopy (ECS) is a promising technique for quantifying LDH and IL-6.
- The developed biosensor has potential for point-of-care (PoC) applications in disease monitoring.
- This label-free approach simplifies detection and enhances accessibility.

