An Immediate-Response Detection System for γ-Hydroxybutyrate to Enhance Personal Safety in Social Environments

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Forensic Science

Background:

• Drug misuse and abuse present significant global public health challenges.
• Drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) is a serious concern, with gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) being a common agent.
• Conventional methods for GHB detection are limited by its endogenous presence, low concentrations, short detection window, and weak optical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a reliable and sensitive method for detecting exogenous GHB in minimally invasive samples.
• To create a rapid, on-site detection platform for GHB.
• To address the challenges posed by GHB's properties in conventional assays.

Main Methods:

• Development of a graphene-based electrical biosensor.
• Testing the biosensor's sensitivity and selectivity using standard GHB solutions.
• Validation of the biosensor's performance in artificial urine matrices.

Main Results:

• The graphene biosensor achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 100 fm for GHB in standard solutions.
• A correlated LOD of 100 fm was achieved in artificial urine.
• The platform demonstrated concentration-dependent electrical responses across a wide dynamic range.

Conclusions:

• The developed graphene biosensor offers rapid, sensitive, and selective detection of GHB.
• This technology has broad implications for clinical diagnostics, forensic analysis, and public health strategies.
• The platform enables on-site detection, crucial for timely identification and management of GHB exposure.