MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are vital biomarkers for early diagnosis of numerous diseases, yet their low abundance and high sequence homology pose significant challenges to conventional detection methods. To address these limitations, we present a novel ultrasensitive and highly specific miRNA detection platform that integrates the CRISPR/Cas13a system with single-molecule FRET-PAINT imaging. By leveraging a precisely localized donor–acceptor FRET mechanism and transient probe binding, our method achieves an approximately 80 % reduction in background noise compared to DNA-PAINT, reaching a detection limit as low as 103.58 aM. We further enhance specificity by introducing intentional mismatches in crRNA design, enabling robust discrimination among highly homologous sequences and rapid reconfiguration for new targets. The platform exhibits excellent anti-interference performance in unprocessed serum, with recovery rates ranging from 96.9 % to 109.6 %. Validation using nine clinical samples demonstrates 100 % diagnostic accuracy. This innovative platform provides a reliable technological foundation for the early screening and precise diagnosis of miRNA-related diseases.
{"title":"CRISPR/Cas13a-enhanced FRET-PAINT (CFP) platform for highly sensitive detection of schistosome-derived miRNA","authors":"Mengzhu Guo , Jiamei Zhong , Ziyue Xu , Tianyu Chen , Hongfeng Cui , Qi Wen , Shuying Xie , Yifei Yang , Xian Hao","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100423","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100423","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are vital biomarkers for early diagnosis of numerous diseases, yet their low abundance and high sequence homology pose significant challenges to conventional detection methods. To address these limitations, we present a novel ultrasensitive and highly specific miRNA detection platform that integrates the CRISPR/Cas13a system with single-molecule FRET-PAINT imaging. By leveraging a precisely localized donor–acceptor FRET mechanism and transient probe binding, our method achieves an approximately 80 % reduction in background noise compared to DNA-PAINT, reaching a detection limit as low as 103.58 aM. We further enhance specificity by introducing intentional mismatches in crRNA design, enabling robust discrimination among highly homologous sequences and rapid reconfiguration for new targets. The platform exhibits excellent anti-interference performance in unprocessed serum, with recovery rates ranging from 96.9 % to 109.6 %. Validation using nine clinical samples demonstrates 100 % diagnostic accuracy. This innovative platform provides a reliable technological foundation for the early screening and precise diagnosis of miRNA-related diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100423"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145921248","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) compromises the human immune system and remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally. Nucleic acid testing is a powerful tool for the early detection of HIV infection, capable of real-time HIV DNA detection without the limitation of a window period. In this study, a DNA nanostructure-based biosensor that leveraged interactions between functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and three-dimensional (3D) DNA walkers were developed for ultrasensitive fluorescence detection of HIV DNA. The biosensor comprised blocked-walking particles (BPs) with locked DNAzyme and substrate particles (SPs) with quenched carboxyfluorescein (FAM) fluorophores. Upon encountering HIV DNA, the blocking strands hybridized more strongly with the HIV DNA, exposing the DNAzyme, which subsequently cleaved FAM on the SPs from the AuNPs and restoring fluorescence. As all substrate strands on SPs were cleaved, the BPs interacted with new SPs, significantly amplifying the fluorescent signal. The fluorescence intensity showed a linear correlation with HIV DNA concentration ranging from 0.02 to 6.00 nM, with a detection limit of 12.8 pM. The performance of biosensor was evaluated using spiked serum samples, demonstrating good precision and recovery rates. The DNA walker biosensor leveraged particle-to-particle interactions for rapid signal amplification, offering great potential for sensitive biosensors.
{"title":"A DNA walker-based biosensor for ultrasensitive HIV DNA detection","authors":"Li-Kang Yin, Rui Huang, Ze-Lin Wang, Can Yang, Xue Mi, Han-Ying Zhan, Zhi-Qi Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100435","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100435","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) compromises the human immune system and remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally. Nucleic acid testing is a powerful tool for the early detection of HIV infection, capable of real-time HIV DNA detection without the limitation of a window period. In this study, a DNA nanostructure-based biosensor that leveraged interactions between functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and three-dimensional (3D) DNA walkers were developed for ultrasensitive fluorescence detection of HIV DNA. The biosensor comprised blocked-walking particles (BPs) with locked DNAzyme and substrate particles (SPs) with quenched carboxyfluorescein (FAM) fluorophores. Upon encountering HIV DNA, the blocking strands hybridized more strongly with the HIV DNA, exposing the DNAzyme, which subsequently cleaved FAM on the SPs from the AuNPs and restoring fluorescence. As all substrate strands on SPs were cleaved, the BPs interacted with new SPs, significantly amplifying the fluorescent signal. The fluorescence intensity showed a linear correlation with HIV DNA concentration ranging from 0.02 to 6.00 nM, with a detection limit of 12.8 pM. The performance of biosensor was evaluated using spiked serum samples, demonstrating good precision and recovery rates. The DNA walker biosensor leveraged particle-to-particle interactions for rapid signal amplification, offering great potential for sensitive biosensors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100435"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145972847","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-25DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100429
C.A. Ku, C.Y. Yang, C.Y. Yu, C.K. Chung
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is an effective optical detection method for tracing amounts of toxic substances, with applications in drug detection, environmental and food safety. In the SERS measurements of malachite green (MG) and salicylic acid (SA), metal nanoparticles (MNPs) or core-shell nanostructures are commonly used. However, the preparation of these nanostructures typically requires at least 12 h. Compared to these complex and time-consuming fabrication methods, porous AAO templates offer a facile and stable SERS measurement substrate. We develop a rapid and efficient through-hole AAO fabrication method for SERS detection of MG and SA. The 2D-3D structures at the bottom of these membranes provide more hotspots from sharp tips and concaves, effectively enhancing the SERS signal intensity and improving limits of detection (LOD). For MG detection, the LOD of 10−10 M and analytical enhancement factor (AEF) of 2.67×105 was achieved, with bottom surface of the membrane providing 2–5 times higher signal intensity compared to top surface. Among different AAO nanostructures, AAO prepared at 40 V showed a 1.2–2 times signal enhancement compared to 100/-4 V, attributed to the smaller interpore distance, which effectively enhances the local electrical field on the AAO substrate. The COMSOL simulation of the electric field enhancement by 2D-3D nanostructures is also performed. The calculated relative standard deviations (RSD) within 5 points are 8.23 % and 8.14 %, indicating that the 2D-3D through-hole membrane structure exhibits excellent uniformity. By applying AAO membranes to SA and real sample detection, the LOD of 1 ppm is achieved. This detection method can help in detecting MG and SA in fields like aquaculture, food safety, and daily items.
{"title":"A high-performance 2D-3D SERS substrate with facile through-hole nanoporous anodic alumina membrane for malachite green and salicylic acid detection","authors":"C.A. Ku, C.Y. Yang, C.Y. Yu, C.K. Chung","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100429","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100429","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is an effective optical detection method for tracing amounts of toxic substances, with applications in drug detection, environmental and food safety. In the SERS measurements of malachite green (MG) and salicylic acid (SA), metal nanoparticles (MNPs) or core-shell nanostructures are commonly used. However, the preparation of these nanostructures typically requires at least 12 h. Compared to these complex and time-consuming fabrication methods, porous AAO templates offer a facile and stable SERS measurement substrate. We develop a rapid and efficient through-hole AAO fabrication method for SERS detection of MG and SA. The 2D-3D structures at the bottom of these membranes provide more hotspots from sharp tips and concaves, effectively enhancing the SERS signal intensity and improving limits of detection (LOD). For MG detection, the LOD of 10<sup>−10</sup> M and analytical enhancement factor (AEF) of 2.67×10<sup>5</sup> was achieved, with bottom surface of the membrane providing 2–5 times higher signal intensity compared to top surface. Among different AAO nanostructures, AAO prepared at 40 V showed a 1.2–2 times signal enhancement compared to 100/-4 V, attributed to the smaller interpore distance, which effectively enhances the local electrical field on the AAO substrate. The COMSOL simulation of the electric field enhancement by 2D-3D nanostructures is also performed. The calculated relative standard deviations (RSD) within 5 points are 8.23 % and 8.14 %, indicating that the 2D-3D through-hole membrane structure exhibits excellent uniformity. By applying AAO membranes to SA and real sample detection, the LOD of 1 ppm is achieved. This detection method can help in detecting MG and SA in fields like aquaculture, food safety, and daily items.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100429"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145921165","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-01-27DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2026.100443
Chaewon Han , Soye Park , Sehyeon Park , Dakyeon Lee , Hyunda Jo , Sejeong Seo , Hyunho Han , Sanghwa Jeong , Woosung Kwon
Background: DNA-functionalized nanomaterials have emerged as a powerful platform for optical biosensing, where DNA's intrinsic molecular recognition imparts high sensitivity and selectivity. However, the integration of DNA with optically active nanomaterials introduces new opportunities and challenges in signal transduction, stability, and application-specific optimization. Despite growing interest in this hybrid field, a unified framework for evaluating and comparing different nanomaterial platforms in the context of DNA-guided sensing is lacking. This review addresses this gap by systematically analyzing the mechanisms and applications of DNA-functionalized optical biosensors.
Results: We provide a comprehensive and critically integrated overview of DNA-functionalized nanomaterials across six major platforms: carbon dots, carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, quantum dots, graphene quantum dots, and silicon-based nanoparticles. Each system is examined in terms of its optical sensing mechanisms, such as fluorescence, FRET, and colorimetric response, and its performance in detecting targets including metal ions, small molecules, nucleic acids, proteins, and pathogens. A direct comparison is presented based on practical criteria such as detection wavelength, detection range, functionalization efficiency, and biocompatibility. We further discuss recent applications in disease diagnostics, point-of-care testing, environmental monitoring, and food safety, along with challenges including signal reproducibility, surface DNA quantification, and stability in complex matrices.
Significance: This review establishes a comparative foundation for evaluating DNA-guided optical biosensors and identifies emerging trends and design strategies across material classes. The insights provided are expected to inform the rational development of next-generation biosensors with enhanced precision, accessibility, and real-world applicability.
{"title":"DNA-functionalized nanomaterials for optical biosensors: Mechanisms, applications, and design perspectives","authors":"Chaewon Han , Soye Park , Sehyeon Park , Dakyeon Lee , Hyunda Jo , Sejeong Seo , Hyunho Han , Sanghwa Jeong , Woosung Kwon","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100443","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100443","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Background: DNA-functionalized nanomaterials have emerged as a powerful platform for optical biosensing, where DNA's intrinsic molecular recognition imparts high sensitivity and selectivity. However, the integration of DNA with optically active nanomaterials introduces new opportunities and challenges in signal transduction, stability, and application-specific optimization. Despite growing interest in this hybrid field, a unified framework for evaluating and comparing different nanomaterial platforms in the context of DNA-guided sensing is lacking. This review addresses this gap by systematically analyzing the mechanisms and applications of DNA-functionalized optical biosensors.</div><div>Results: We provide a comprehensive and critically integrated overview of DNA-functionalized nanomaterials across six major platforms: carbon dots, carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, quantum dots, graphene quantum dots, and silicon-based nanoparticles. Each system is examined in terms of its optical sensing mechanisms, such as fluorescence, FRET, and colorimetric response, and its performance in detecting targets including metal ions, small molecules, nucleic acids, proteins, and pathogens. A direct comparison is presented based on practical criteria such as detection wavelength, detection range, functionalization efficiency, and biocompatibility. We further discuss recent applications in disease diagnostics, point-of-care testing, environmental monitoring, and food safety, along with challenges including signal reproducibility, surface DNA quantification, and stability in complex matrices.</div><div>Significance: This review establishes a comparative foundation for evaluating DNA-guided optical biosensors and identifies emerging trends and design strategies across material classes. The insights provided are expected to inform the rational development of next-generation biosensors with enhanced precision, accessibility, and real-world applicability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100443"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146073649","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-08DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100417
Laura Pasquardini , Rosalba Pitruzzella , Francesco Arcadio , Mafalda Rizzuti , Valentina Melzi , Francesca Sironi , Lia Vanzetti , Andrea Chiappini , Chiara Perri , Linda Ottoboni , Nunzio Cennamo , Stefania Corti , Luigi Zeni
MicroRNAs represent an emerging class of biomarkers that can be correlated with pathological situations. Precise and rapid detection of these biomarkers via Point-of-Care Tests (POCT) can be crucial for early disease identification or monitoring of medical treatments. In this work, an ultra-highly sensitive biosensing strategy for POCT, based on hybrid plasmonic phenomena in pollen-based nanostructures covered by gold, combined with a specific bioreceptor layer, is presented. The miRNA detection is carried out in just 15 min by hybridization, without any target amplification or complex enhancement, simply by diluting the sample in a suitable buffer. As a proof of concept, miR-129–5p is selected as possibly correlated with Atrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and its detection is performed in buffer and diluted human serum, achieving a limit of detection (LOD) of approximately 100 zM. The proposed POCT is characterized via X-ray Photoelectron Spectrocopy (XPS) and microRAMAN, dose-response curves, selectivity tests, and test in real samples. Moreover, the detection of miR-129–5p in ALS serum patients has been compared with qRT-PCR to highlight the impressive performances obtained with the POCT, just diluting the sample, without any additional treatment. These experimental results will open a new class of POCT with ultra-high sensitivity, ultra-high specificity, and ultra-fast response, all exploiting simple equipment and nanoplasmonic biochips. Specifically, considering the advantages of using diluted real samples and the achieved detection range, the proposed sensing approach could be useful for enhancing cancer diagnosis by detecting mature circulating miRNA in various body fluids.
{"title":"A point-of-care test for miR-129–5p detection at sub-atto molar concentrations exploiting plasmonic pollen probes combined with complementary DNA","authors":"Laura Pasquardini , Rosalba Pitruzzella , Francesco Arcadio , Mafalda Rizzuti , Valentina Melzi , Francesca Sironi , Lia Vanzetti , Andrea Chiappini , Chiara Perri , Linda Ottoboni , Nunzio Cennamo , Stefania Corti , Luigi Zeni","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100417","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100417","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>MicroRNAs represent an emerging class of biomarkers that can be correlated with pathological situations. Precise and rapid detection of these biomarkers via Point-of-Care Tests (POCT) can be crucial for early disease identification or monitoring of medical treatments. In this work, an ultra-highly sensitive biosensing strategy for POCT, based on hybrid plasmonic phenomena in pollen-based nanostructures covered by gold, combined with a specific bioreceptor layer, is presented. The miRNA detection is carried out in just 15 min by hybridization, without any target amplification or complex enhancement, simply by diluting the sample in a suitable buffer. As a proof of concept, miR-129–5p is selected as possibly correlated with Atrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and its detection is performed in buffer and diluted human serum, achieving a limit of detection (LOD) of approximately 100 zM. The proposed POCT is characterized via X-ray Photoelectron Spectrocopy (XPS) and microRAMAN, dose-response curves, selectivity tests, and test in real samples. Moreover, the detection of miR-129–5p in ALS serum patients has been compared with qRT-PCR to highlight the impressive performances obtained with the POCT, just diluting the sample, without any additional treatment. These experimental results will open a new class of POCT with ultra-high sensitivity, ultra-high specificity, and ultra-fast response, all exploiting simple equipment and nanoplasmonic biochips. Specifically, considering the advantages of using diluted real samples and the achieved detection range, the proposed sensing approach could be useful for enhancing cancer diagnosis by detecting mature circulating miRNA in various body fluids.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100417"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145735024","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2026.100440
Yifan Yang , Ruolin Yang , Chengkun Luo, Xuefeng Wang, Fuqiang Ma
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an escalating demand for rapid and precise disease diagnostics. Nucleic acid detection technology, owing to its exceptional specificity and sensitivity, has increasingly gained prominence in disease diagnosis. However, traditional nucleic acid detection methods are constrained by expensive instrumentation, cumbersome procedures, and the requirement for specialized laboratory personnel, posing challenges for implementation in primary healthcare settings. Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), an emerging nucleic acid amplification technique, circumvents the need for thermal cyclers and offers simplified operation, high sensitivity, specificity, short detection time, and robust resistance to inhibitors. These attributes make LAMP particularly suitable for point-of-care testing, community-level screening, and customs inspections. This review focuses on recent advancements in LAMP technology for rapid nucleic acid detection, encompassing the entire workflow from primer design, sample pre-treatment, core enzyme engineering and mutagenesis, reaction system optimization, detection methodologies, to common issues with LAMP technology. We synthesize global research progress in these areas, aiming to provide a reference basis for the development and application of LAMP in rapid nucleic acid testing.
{"title":"Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP): Current progress and future directions in rapid nucleic acid detection","authors":"Yifan Yang , Ruolin Yang , Chengkun Luo, Xuefeng Wang, Fuqiang Ma","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100440","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2026.100440","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an escalating demand for rapid and precise disease diagnostics. Nucleic acid detection technology, owing to its exceptional specificity and sensitivity, has increasingly gained prominence in disease diagnosis. However, traditional nucleic acid detection methods are constrained by expensive instrumentation, cumbersome procedures, and the requirement for specialized laboratory personnel, posing challenges for implementation in primary healthcare settings. Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), an emerging nucleic acid amplification technique, circumvents the need for thermal cyclers and offers simplified operation, high sensitivity, specificity, short detection time, and robust resistance to inhibitors. These attributes make LAMP particularly suitable for point-of-care testing, community-level screening, and customs inspections. This review focuses on recent advancements in LAMP technology for rapid nucleic acid detection, encompassing the entire workflow from primer design, sample pre-treatment, core enzyme engineering and mutagenesis, reaction system optimization, detection methodologies, to common issues with LAMP technology. We synthesize global research progress in these areas, aiming to provide a reference basis for the development and application of LAMP in rapid nucleic acid testing.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100440"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146034265","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100422
Ha Eun Choa , Min Young Kim , Chul Oh Park , Dung Thi Hanh To , Nosang Vincent Myung , Kyu Hyoung Lee
Nanoscale heterostructures composed of noble metals and metal oxides are widely employed to enhance gas sensing performance. However, the fundamental sensing mechanisms underlying these improvements remain incompletely understood. Herein, we investigate the surface reaction characteristics of porous ZnO nanosheets (P-ZnO NSs) decorated with Pd nanoparticles (NPs), focusing on two key parameters: the energy barrier for carrier transport (Eb) and the dominant ionized oxygen species, inferred from the power law exponent n in the relation ,where R is the resistance and is the oxygen partial pressure. Our results show that Pd NPs decoration significantly modulates Eb, and both Eb and n are strongly correlated with gas sensing behavior. Temperature- and concentration-dependent measurements reveal that an increased ΔEb enhances the response toward acetone, while the optimal sensing temperature can be inferred from the n value. A maximum sensing response of ∼ 0.16 was achieved at 450 °C in the sample with ∼3.1 % Pd surface coverage, which exhibited the highest ΔEb (0.60 eV) and an n value of 0.26, corresponding to dominant ionized oxygen species of O2−. For NO2 sensing, the same sample also exhibited the largest response at 250 °C, suggesting that surface band modulation plays dominant role in oxidizing gas detection as well. In contrast, NH3 sensing was comparatively suppressed, which is attributed to competing oxidative surface pathways that partially counteract the electron-donation effect of NH3.
{"title":"Mechanistic understanding of gas sensing in palladium nanoparticles-decorated porous ZnO nanosheets: Correlating energy barrier and ionized oxygen species with sensing performance","authors":"Ha Eun Choa , Min Young Kim , Chul Oh Park , Dung Thi Hanh To , Nosang Vincent Myung , Kyu Hyoung Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100422","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100422","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Nanoscale heterostructures composed of noble metals and metal oxides are widely employed to enhance gas sensing performance. However, the fundamental sensing mechanisms underlying these improvements remain incompletely understood. Herein, we investigate the surface reaction characteristics of porous ZnO nanosheets (P-ZnO NSs) decorated with Pd nanoparticles (NPs), focusing on two key parameters: the energy barrier for carrier transport (<em>E</em><sub>b</sub>) and the dominant ionized oxygen species, inferred from the power law exponent <em>n</em> in the relation <span><math><mrow><mi>R</mi><mo>=</mo><mi>A</mi><msup><mrow><msub><mi>P</mi><msub><mi>O</mi><mn>2</mn></msub></msub></mrow><mi>n</mi></msup></mrow></math></span>,where <em>R</em> is the resistance and <span><math><msub><mi>P</mi><msub><mi>O</mi><mn>2</mn></msub></msub></math></span> is the oxygen partial pressure. Our results show that Pd NPs decoration significantly modulates <em>E</em><sub>b</sub>, and both <em>E</em><sub>b</sub> and <em>n</em> are strongly correlated with gas sensing behavior. Temperature- and concentration-dependent measurements reveal that an increased Δ<em>E</em><sub>b</sub> enhances the response toward acetone, while the optimal sensing temperature can be inferred from the <em>n</em> value. A maximum sensing response of ∼ 0.16 was achieved at 450 °C in the sample with ∼3.1 % Pd surface coverage, which exhibited the highest Δ<em>E</em><sub>b</sub> (0.60 eV) and an <em>n</em> value of 0.26, corresponding to dominant ionized oxygen species of O<sup>2−</sup>. For NO<sub>2</sub> sensing, the same sample also exhibited the largest response at 250 °C, suggesting that surface band modulation plays dominant role in oxidizing gas detection as well. In contrast, NH<sub>3</sub> sensing was comparatively suppressed, which is attributed to competing oxidative surface pathways that partially counteract the electron-donation effect of NH<sub>3</sub>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100422"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145921246","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-19DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100421
Mengna Wang , Bai Sun , Guangdong Zhou , Yu Cui , Zelin Cao , Kun Wang , Kaikai Gao , Hui Ma , Xinyu Zhang , Xiaoliang Chen , Wenting Yang , Guoqing Tong
It is well known that the assisted reproduction has become the only means for couples with reproductive defects to have a child. However, the optimal embryo transfer in existing assisted reproductive technologies mainly relies on morphological evaluation, and there is currently a lack of precise detection techniques for selecting grade embryos. To address this blank, an innovative embryo detection method based on a memristor with memristive-sensing effect was firstly developed by analyzing the culture medium from different grade embryos, achieving the quantitative and real-time monitoring based on the metabolic and ROS activity. Specifically, it is found that the device can operate through the redistribution of interfacial surface charges induced by OH–/H+ ions adsorption, exhibiting a distance resistance state transition (SET voltage: -1.7 V to +1.4 V at room temperature). Exceptionally low signal fluctuation was also demonstrated by the device in embryo culture medium testing, where the coefficient of variation remained below 20%. Therefore, by integrating innovative memristive-sensing technology, it is aimed to establish an objective, data-driven alternative to conventional morphological assessment, thereby significantly improving the embryos selection accuracy and clinical pregnancy rate.
{"title":"A memristor-based intelligent system for embryonic metabolic monitoring and diagnostic assessment","authors":"Mengna Wang , Bai Sun , Guangdong Zhou , Yu Cui , Zelin Cao , Kun Wang , Kaikai Gao , Hui Ma , Xinyu Zhang , Xiaoliang Chen , Wenting Yang , Guoqing Tong","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100421","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100421","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>It is well known that the assisted reproduction has become the only means for couples with reproductive defects to have a child. However, the optimal embryo transfer in existing assisted reproductive technologies mainly relies on morphological evaluation, and there is currently a lack of precise detection techniques for selecting grade embryos. To address this blank, an innovative embryo detection method based on a memristor with memristive-sensing effect was firstly developed by analyzing the culture medium from different grade embryos, achieving the quantitative and real-time monitoring based on the metabolic and ROS activity. Specifically, it is found that the device can operate through the redistribution of interfacial surface charges induced by OH<sup>–</sup>/H<sup>+</sup> ions adsorption, exhibiting a distance resistance state transition (SET voltage: -1.7 V to +1.4 V at room temperature). Exceptionally low signal fluctuation was also demonstrated by the device in embryo culture medium testing, where the coefficient of variation remained below 20%. Therefore, by integrating innovative memristive-sensing technology, it is aimed to establish an objective, data-driven alternative to conventional morphological assessment, thereby significantly improving the embryos selection accuracy and clinical pregnancy rate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100421"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145921247","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-12-08DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100416
Nazanin Poursharifi , Dariush Semnani , Hossein Fashandi , Ali A. Ensafi , Alireza Sanati , Onur Parlak
The rising global incidence of melanoma and its high mortality rates due to late diagnosis demand rapid, sensitive, and non-invasive diagnostic tools. Here, we introduce a disposable electrochemical biosensor that exploits the synergistic properties of electrospun polyamide 6 (PA6) and conductive polypyrrole (PPy) nanofibers for detecting tyrosinase (Tyr). The biosensor integrates the high surface area and tunable morphology of PA6 nanofibers (random and aligned) with highly conductive PPy, fabricated via electrospinning, and polymerization onto indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes to ensure selective Tyr binding. Electrochemical testing in synthetic interstitial fluid (ISF) and human serum reveals a linear response to Tyr (0.1–0.9 mg/mL), with the aligned nanofiber configuration achieving high limits of detection (LOD) of 0.03 mg/mL (ISF) and 0.029 mg/mL (serum), alongside sensitivities of 95.97 and 76.60 μA·mg⁻¹·mL·cm⁻², respectively. The concentration-dependent current response highlights the biosensor’s high sensitivity, stability, and biocompatibility, proving its potential for non-invasive, early-stage melanoma detection in complex biological environments. This work paves the way for scalable, cost-effective melanoma screening, with future studies aimed at clinical validation and integration into point-of-care devices to improve patient outcomes globally.
{"title":"Polymer nanofiber-based electrodes for tyrosinase detection in melanoma diagnosis","authors":"Nazanin Poursharifi , Dariush Semnani , Hossein Fashandi , Ali A. Ensafi , Alireza Sanati , Onur Parlak","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100416","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100416","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The rising global incidence of melanoma and its high mortality rates due to late diagnosis demand rapid, sensitive, and non-invasive diagnostic tools. Here, we introduce a disposable electrochemical biosensor that exploits the synergistic properties of electrospun polyamide 6 (PA6) and conductive polypyrrole (PPy) nanofibers for detecting tyrosinase (Tyr). The biosensor integrates the high surface area and tunable morphology of PA6 nanofibers (random and aligned) with highly conductive PPy, fabricated via electrospinning, and polymerization onto indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes to ensure selective Tyr binding. Electrochemical testing in synthetic interstitial fluid (ISF) and human serum reveals a linear response to Tyr (0.1–0.9 mg/mL), with the aligned nanofiber configuration achieving high limits of detection (LOD) of 0.03 mg/mL (ISF) and 0.029 mg/mL (serum), alongside sensitivities of 95.97 and 76.60 μA·mg⁻¹·mL·cm⁻², respectively. The concentration-dependent current response highlights the biosensor’s high sensitivity, stability, and biocompatibility, proving its potential for non-invasive, early-stage melanoma detection in complex biological environments. This work paves the way for scalable, cost-effective melanoma screening, with future studies aimed at clinical validation and integration into point-of-care devices to improve patient outcomes globally.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100416"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145735022","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-06-01Epub Date: 2025-11-21DOI: 10.1016/j.snr.2025.100407
Sheng-Kai Lin , Jui-Hua Lee , Hao-Sin Tsai , Yen-Chun Chen , Ming-Xiang Zhang , Wen-Cheng Kuo , Yao-Joe Yang
Silent speech interfaces (SSIs) recognize verbal expressions when speech signals are not accessible and serve as promising translator tools for people with voice disorder conditions. This work presents a wearable electromyogram (EMG)-based SSI device utilizing five microneedle array (MNA) electrodes and a conductive polymer-based strain sensor. An AI speech recognition model, which processes the EMG and strain signals, was implemented to enable assisted speaking without relying on the vocal folds. The proposed MNA electrodes can bypass the electric barrier of the stratum corneum layer of human skin and significantly enhance signal quality without the need for skin abrasion or conductive gel during electrode application. To enhance recognition accuracy, a conductive polymer-based strain sensor is used to measure the strain variation induced by the movement of the mandible bone during silent speech. The AI speech recognition model exhibited a solid word error rate (WER) (8.5%) for a dataset of 1,396 words. High recognition accuracy (>90%) was achieved on various datasets covering commonly used words and easily confusable word pairs. This proposed wearable SSI potentially helps people with vocal cord injuries regain their ability to speak, and potentially enables human interactions in special situations and environments.
{"title":"A silent speech interface with machine learning recognition model using microneedle array electrodes and polymer-based strain sensors","authors":"Sheng-Kai Lin , Jui-Hua Lee , Hao-Sin Tsai , Yen-Chun Chen , Ming-Xiang Zhang , Wen-Cheng Kuo , Yao-Joe Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100407","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.snr.2025.100407","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Silent speech interfaces (SSIs) recognize verbal expressions when speech signals are not accessible and serve as promising translator tools for people with voice disorder conditions. This work presents a wearable electromyogram (EMG)-based SSI device utilizing five microneedle array (MNA) electrodes and a conductive polymer-based strain sensor. An AI speech recognition model, which processes the EMG and strain signals, was implemented to enable assisted speaking without relying on the vocal folds. The proposed MNA electrodes can bypass the electric barrier of the stratum corneum layer of human skin and significantly enhance signal quality without the need for skin abrasion or conductive gel during electrode application. To enhance recognition accuracy, a conductive polymer-based strain sensor is used to measure the strain variation induced by the movement of the mandible bone during silent speech. The AI speech recognition model exhibited a solid word error rate (WER) (8.5%) for a dataset of 1,396 words. High recognition accuracy (>90%) was achieved on various datasets covering commonly used words and easily confusable word pairs. This proposed wearable SSI potentially helps people with vocal cord injuries regain their ability to speak, and potentially enables human interactions in special situations and environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":426,"journal":{"name":"Sensors and Actuators Reports","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100407"},"PeriodicalIF":7.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145652005","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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