“Ultrasensitive Detection of Clinical Biomarkers and Analytes through Distance- and Morphology-Dependent Sensing Modes”
Colorimetric analysis has emerged as a crucial aspect of plasmonic-based biosensors, leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials to develop innovative applications. The extinction of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in the visible range has enabled the creation of LSPR colorimetric-based biosensors, which have proven to be powerful tools for clinical diagnostics and drug monitoring. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in biochemical monitoring of clinical biomarkers using ultrasensitive plasmonic colorimetric strategies.
Distance-Dependent Sensing Mode
The distance-dependent sensing mode relies on the changes in the distance between metal nanoparticles, leading to alterations in the LSPR signal. This approach has been successfully employed for the detection of various analytes, including proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. The advantages of this mode include high sensitivity, selectivity, and simplicity, making it an attractive option for point-of-care devices.
Morphology/Size-Dependent Sensing Mode
The morphology/size-dependent sensing mode exploits the changes in the shape and size of metal nanoparticles to detect analytes. This approach has been used for the detection of pharmaceuticals, bacteria, and viruses, including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The benefits of this mode include high sensitivity, rapid detection, and the ability to detect multiple analytes simultaneously.
Point-of-Care Devices and Naked-Eye Detection
Colorimetric nanosensors have the potential to revolutionize point-of-care devices, enabling rapid, visual readout of biological samples. The advantages of these devices include simplicity, portability, and low cost, making them ideal for resource-limited settings. The ability to detect a broad range of analytes, including biomarkers for diseases, pharmaceuticals, and pathogens, further underscores the potential of colorimetric plasmonic biosensors.
Challenges and Future Perspectives
Despite the significant progress made in colorimetric plasmonic biosensors, several challenges remain to be addressed. These include the need for improved sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, as well as the development of standardized protocols for biosensor fabrication and validation. Future perspectives include the integration of machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence to enhance the performance of biosensors and the development of wearable devices for continuous monitoring.
Colorimetric plasmonic biosensors have emerged as a powerful tool for clinical diagnostics and point-of-care devices. The distance- and morphology/size-dependent sensing modes have enabled the detection of a broad range of analytes, including biomarkers for diseases, pharmaceuticals, and pathogens. The potential of these biosensors to revolutionize healthcare is vast, and ongoing research is expected to overcome the current challenges and limitations, ultimately leading to the development of rapid, accurate, and affordable diagnostic tools.
