Electrochemical Detection of Hormones Using Nanostructured Electrodes

Abstract

Hormones regulate several physiological processes in living organisms, and their detection requires accuracy and sensitivity. Recent advances in nanostructured electrodes for the electrochemical detection of hormones are described. Nanostructured electrodes’ high surface area, electrocatalytic activity, and sensitivity make them a strong hormone detection platform. This paper covers nanostructured electrode design and production using MOFs, zeolites, carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, and 2D materials such as TMDs, Mxenes, graphene, and conducting polymers onto electrodes surfaces that have been used to confer distinct characteristics for the purpose of electrochemical hormone detection. The use of aptamers for hormone recognition is producing especially promising results, as is the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in composite electrodes. These materials are optimized for hormone detection, allowing trace-level quantification. Various electrochemical techniques such as SWV, CV, DPV, EIS, and amperometry are reviewed in depth for hormone detection, showing the ability for quick, selective, and quantitative evaluation. We also discuss hormone immobilization on nanostructured electrodes to improve detection stability and specificity. We focus on real-time monitoring and tailored healthcare with nanostructured electrode-based hormone detection in clinical diagnostics, wearable devices, and point-of-care testing. These nanostructured electrode-based assays are useful for endocrinology research and hormone-related disease diagnostics due to their sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability. We conclude with nanotechnology–microfluidics integration and tiny portable hormone-detection devices. Nanostructured electrodes can improve hormone regulation and healthcare by facilitating early disease diagnosis and customized therapy.