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Nanopore-based sensors typically work by monitoring transient pulses in conductance via current–time traces as molecules translocate through the nanopore. The unique property of being able to monitor single molecules gives nanopore sensors the potential as quantitative sensors based on the counting of single molecules. This review provides an overview of the concepts and fabrication of nanopore sensors as well as nanopore sensing with a view toward using nanopore sensors for quantitative analysis. We first introduce the classification of nanopores and highlight their applications in molecular identification with some pioneering studies. The review then shifts focus to recent strategies to extend nanopore sensors to devices that can rapidly and accurately quantify the amount of an analyte of interest. Finally, future prospects are provided and briefly discussed. The aim of this review is to aid in understanding recent advances, challenges, and prospects for nanopore sensors for quantitative analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial confinement of electrochemical reactions at solid/liquid interfaces is a mature area of research, and a central theme from cell biology to analytical chemistry. Monitoring or manipulating the kinetics of a charge transfer reaction in 2D is generally achieved using scanning electrochemical microscopy or multielectrode arrays, techniques that rely on moving physical probes or on a network of electrical connections. This tutorial is introducing concepts and instruments to confine faradaic electrochemical reactions in 2D without resorting to the mechanical movement of a probe, and with the simple design of one semiconducting electrode, one electrical lead and a single-channel potentiostat. We provide a theoretical background of semiconductor electrochemistry, and describe the use of localised visible light stimuli on photoconductor/liquid and semiconductor/liquid interfaces to address electrical conductivity – hence chemical reactivity – only at one specific site defined by the experimentalist. This enables shifting of the tenet of one electrode/one wire towards one wire/many electrodes. We discuss the applications of this emerging platform in the context of surface chemistry patterning, redox imaging, chemical and biological sensing, generating chemical gradients, electrocatalysis, nanotechnology and cell biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein the development of cellular impedance biosensors, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and the general principles and terms associated with the cell–electrode interface is reviewed. This family of techniques provides quantitative and sensitive information into cell responses to stimuli in real-time with high temporal resolution. The applications of cell-based impedance biosensors as a readout in cell biology is illustrated with a diverse range of examples. The current state of the field, its limitations, the possible available solutions, and the potential benefits of developing biosensors are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement science has been converging to smaller and smaller samples, such that it is now possible to detect single molecules. This Review focuses on the next generation of analytical tools that combine single-molecule detection with the ability to measure many single molecules simultaneously and/or process larger and more complex samples. Such single-molecule sensors constitute a new type of quantitative analytical tool, as they perform analysis by molecular counting and thus potentially capture the heterogeneity of the sample. This Review outlines the advantages and potential of these new, quantitative single-molecule sensors, the measurement challenges in making single-molecule devices suitable for analysis, the inspiration biology provides for overcoming these challenges, and some of the solutions currently being explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fortschritte in der Messtechnik ermöglichen immer kleinere Probenmengen, sodass mittlerweile der Nachweis einzelner Moleküle möglich ist. Schwerpunkt dieses Aufsatzes ist die nächste Generation von Analysewerkzeugen, die die Einzelmolekül ‐ Detektion mit der simultanen Messung vieler Einzelmoleküle kombinieren und/oder größere und komplexere Probenmengen bearbeiten können. Solche Einzelmolekül ‐ Sensoren sind eine neue Art quantitativer Analysewerkzeuge, da die Untersuchung durch Molekülzählung erfolgt und dadurch die Heterogenität der Probe bestimmt werden kann. Der Aufsatz gibt eine Übersicht über die Vorteile und das Potential dieser neuen, quantitativen Einzelmolekül ‐ Sensoren, die messtechnischen Herausforderungen bei der Herstellung von Einzelmolekül ‐ Instrumenten für die Analyse, die Anregungen aus der Biologie zur Bewältigung dieser Herausforderungen sowie einige der derzeit untersuchten Lösungsansätze. Fortschritte in der Messtechnik ermöglichten eine schrittweise Verringerung von Probengrößen, sodass heute Einzelmolekül ‐ Messungen zu den gängigen Methoden gehören. Erwartet wird nun eine neue Generation von Sensoren, mithilfe derer vielzählige Einzelmolekül ‐ Ereignisse zur quantitativen Analyse genutzt werden können. Herausforderungen, Möglichkeiten und neuere Entwicklungen im Bereich quantitativer Einzelmolekül ‐ Sensoren werden diskutiert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the use of single entity electrochemistry techniques for mammalian cell counting. Topics discussed include the use of fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) for red blood cells counting, application of the nanoparticle collision in experiments as a subject and the use of hemocytometer to diagnose blood disorder by counting red blood cells.

Rote Blutkörperchen wurden in einem elektrochemischen Aufprallexperiment gemessen, das von Compton und Mitarbeitern kürzlich vorgestellt wurde. Wenn eine Zelle auf die Elektrode prallt, wird sie lysiert und ein Stromsignal aus der Reduktion des Sauerstoffs aus dem Zellinneren wird gemessen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofouling on surfaces can deleteriously affect the function of electrochemical sensor used in a biological fluid. The demand is thus to develop a sensor operatable in complex matrices. Herein, we concisely review the technologies developed to date to minimize fouling of electrochemical interfaces by blood-based fluids with an emphasis on affinity biosensing. The methods toward this sensor fabrication that are discussed here include approaches where; chemically modified surfaces with antifouling layers such as ethylene oxides, zwitterionics and some alternative antifouling agents; physical forces such as fluidic systems; electrode surface topography, prevent biofouling, as well as recent approaches where biofouling does not interfere with the response (aptasensors). Furthermore, the important emerging field of implantable biosensors, originated from such fabrication procedures is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surfaces with a well-defined presentationof ligands for receptors on the cell membrane can serve as modelsof the extracellular matrix for studying cell adhesion or as modelcell surfaces for exploring cell–cell contacts. Because suchsurfaces can provide exquisite control over, for example, the densityof these ligands or when the ligands are presented to the cell, theyprovide a very precise strategy for understanding the mechanisms bywhich cells respond to external adhesive cues. In the present featurearticle, we present an overview of the basic biology of cell adhesionbefore discussing surfaces that have a static presentation of immobileligands. We outline the biological information that such surfaceshave given us, before progressing to recently developed switchablesurfaces and surfaces that mimic the lipid bilayer, having adhesiveligands that can move around the membrane and be remodeled by thecell. Finally, the feature article closes with some of the biologicalinformation that these new types of surfaces could provide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modification of surfaces with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) containing multiple different molecules, or containing molecules with multiple different functional components, or both, has become increasingly popular over the last two decades. This explosion of interest is primarily related to the ability to control the modification of interfaces with something approaching molecular level control and to the ability to characterise the molecular constructs by which the surface is modified. Over this time the level of sophistication of molecular constructs, and the level of knowledge related to how to fabricate molecular constructs on surfaces have advanced enormously. This critical reviewaims to guide researchers interested in modifying surfaces with a high degree of control to the use of organic layers. Highlighted are some of the issues to consider when working with SAMs, as well as some of the lessons learnt (169 references). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Herein we show an electrochemical sensor for the detection of copper ions that has a limit of detection below 1pM. This extraordinarily low limit of detection is achieved in two ways. The first is to use SAM modified electrodes to give low background current where electron transfer to the underlying polycrystalline electrode is achieved through gold nanoparticles attached to the terminus of the SAM. The gold nanoparticles are modified with cysteine to allow copper accumulation. The second way the low detection limits are achieved is by the addition of cysteine-modified nanoparticles to the sample solution, as well as the SAM modified electrode. The complexation of copper with the nanoparticles in solution causes them to aggregate with these aggregates accumulating on the electrode. Thus a higher percentage of copper in the solution is collected at the electrode giving the enhanced detection limits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A label-free immunosensor based on the modulation of the electrochemistry of a surface bound redox species, to detect the presence of antibodies, is demonstrated. In this proof of concept study the model epitope was biotin and the model antibody was anti-biotin IgG. Glassy carbon (GC) electrode surfaces were first modified with 4-nitrophenyl groups by electrochemical reductive adsorption of the corresponding aryl diazonium salt. Subsequently, the nitro group was reductively converted into an amine, giving 4-aminophenyl groups. Oxidatively shortened single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were then covalently attached to the electrode via self-assembly; a procedure that has previously been shown to give SWNTs aligned normal to the surface. 1,1-Di(aminomethyl)ferrocene was attached to the carboxylic acid terminated SWNTs followed by attachment of biotin to the remaining free amine of the ferrocene derivative. Binding of anti-biotin IgG to the surface bound epitope resulted in attenuation of the ferrocene electrochemistry. This label-free immunosensor was successfully able to detect anti-biotin between 30 and 450ngmL−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The influence of both nanotube orientation and length on the electrochemical properties of electrodes modified with single-walled carbon nanotubes was investigated. Gold electrodes were modified with either randomly dispersed or vertically aligned nanotubes to which ferrocenemethylamine was attached. Electron transfer kinetics were found to depend strongly on the orientation of the nanotube, with electron transfer between the gold electrode and the ferrocene moiety being 40 times slower through randomly dispersed nanotubes than through vertically aligned nanotubes. The difference is hypothesized to be due to electron transfer being more direct through a single tube than that with electrodes modified with randomly dispersed nanotubes. With the vertically aligned nanotubes the rate constant for electron transfer varied inversely with the mean length of the nanotubes. The results indicate there is an advantage in using aligned carbon nanotube arrays over randomly dispersed nanotubes for achieving efficient electron transfer to bound redox active species such as in the case of bioelectronic or photovoltaic devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The charge-transfer properties of DNA duplexes are exploited to produce a fast, simple, sensitive, and selective DNA biosensor by exposing the DNA recognition interface to a sample containing target DNA and the redox-active intercalator, anthraquinonemonosulfonic acid (AQMS). Electrochemistry from electron transfer through the DNA to AQMS intercalated into DNA duplexes can be differentiated from electrochemistry due to direct access of the AQMS to the electrode surface due to the difference in the environment of the AQMS giving a shift in the potential at which the molecule is reduced. The ability to distinguish between the two electrochemical signals enables DNA hybridization to be monitored in real time. This in situ detection scheme has good selectivity, being able to differentiate between a complementary target DNA sequence and one containing either C-A or G-A singlebase mismatches. The concentration detection limit of the biosensor is 0.5 nM (1 pmol) with an assay time of 1 h. The fact that the end user is only required to simultaneously add the sample containing the target DNA and AQMS gives a DNA biosensor that is highly compatible with PCR on chip technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This review paper outlines the important issues with regards to the development of biosensors for the monitoring of biological warfare agents (BWAs) starting with the basic components of biosensors and the features of BWAs, which are compatible with detection using biological recognition molecules. The advantages and limitations of biosensors are discussed followed by the current state of the art in biosensors for detecting BWAs. Finally the developments required to enable biosensors to become more effective at providing early warning of possible biological attack and advances towards these developments are covered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes have begun to attract enormous interest in electrochemistry because of their small size and good electrochemical properties. The vast majority of studies thus far have used ensembles of carbon nanotubes to nanostructure macroscopic electrodes either with randomly dispersed nanotubes or with aligned carbon nanotubes. The resultant nanotube modified electrodes have most frequently been used for electro-analytical purposes such as the development of biosensors. This review introduces carbon nanotubes and approaches to nanostructuring electrodes with carbon nanotubes, discusses what is known of their electrochemical properties and briefly outlines some of the exciting applications to which they are being targeted for use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The label-free amperometric detection of a rabbit IgG antigen by an anti-rabbit IgG antibody is achieved by observing the electrochemistry at a glassy carbon electrode modified with antibody entrapped in an electrodeposited polypyrrole membrane. In a flow injection apparatus the electrode is pulsed between -0.2 and +0.4 V versus Ag/AgCl. The pulsing of the electrode switches the polypyrrole membrane between the oxidised and reduced states. When antigen is injected into the flow stream a change in current is observed at the electrode despite the antigen or antibody being redox inactive at the potentials employed. It is proposed that this current is due to a change in the flux of ions into and out of the polypyrrole matrix during a pulse when the poly-anionic antigen is present. The immunoreaction was reversible because the 200 ms pulse at each potential was too short to allow secondary bonding forces (hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic forces) which are responsible for the strength of the antibody–antigen complex to be established. The consequence of the reversibility of the antigen–antibody binding is a low apparent affinity constant but an easily regenerated recognition interface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Achieving sharp spectral resonances in porous silicon based photonic structures is of significant practical importance for improving the accuracy of refractive index-based sensing in chemical and biochemical applications. Here, we show that by compensating for depth related heterogeneities in the etching conditions, we are able to reduce the porosity modulation in Bragg reflectors to below 1% and achieve absorption limited spectral widths of 7 nm in the visible part of the spectrum. Such narrowband Bragg reflectors provide markedly improved sensing capability for real-time monitoring of refractive index changes compared with reflectors with broader spectral features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the kinetics of cholesterol efflux to delipidated apoliproprotein A-1. Mathematical model involving two independent pathways of cholesterol efflux; Effect of the oxysterol 7-ketocholesterol on the initial efflux; Characterization of the cholesterol efflux pathways.

Nanoparticles that catalyze biochemically relevant reactions are promoted as alternative enzymes. The application of such artificial enzymes is severely restricted by poor selectivity in biological fluids; mainly because the reactions occur at active sites on the exterior surface of the nanoparticle. Enzymes in contrast typically have their active sites down a nanoconfined substrate channel where the reaction occurs in different solution conditions to bulk solution which aids in achieving selectivity for the substrate. Herein the same 3D structure of enzymes is mimicked in nanoparticles to allow selective reactions in biological fluids. This is achieved using a gold nanoparticle coated in a conducting mesoporous carbon shell where isolated nanochannels lead to the gold surface. It can detect glucose in whole blood with no interference from other species. This is achieved by electrochemically pulsing the artificial enzymes to generate the locally required alkalinity for an effective electrocatalytic reaction in the nanochannels, as well as expelling fouling agents that will otherwise passivate the electrocatalytic reaction. The artificial enzymes are shown to be capable of detecting glucose in biological fluids, without loss of signal, for several months. This study shows how nanoconfinement in nanoparticles can be exploited to potentially allow a broad range of species to be selectively detected in biological fluids with stability that can exceed that of enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents an alternative design for an amperometric biosensor for lactate. Examination of descriptions of biosensors; Description of the geometry for this biosensor; Information on experiments undertaken in this research.

The In My Element series celebrates the personal accounts from Chemistry – A European Journal Editorial Board members for the 2019 International Year of the Periodic Table. In this contribution, Justin Gooding gives his story on gold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents complementary bioanalytical experiments designed for undergraduate bioanalytical chemistry laboratory. Solution-based enzyme assay analysis of glucose concentration in sports drinks; Enzyme biosensor; Comparison of analyses in terms of usage, sensitivity, measurable concentration range, influence of co-substrate and possible errors and interferences.

This study presents the combination of electrochemical cell based biosensor and fluorescence microscopy on a single platform to track biomolecular processes contributing to the morphology changes of the cells. Initial experiments demonstrate that using interdigitated electrodes where the gold microfingers were comparable in width and spacing to a single cell have the optimal sensitivity in the final electrochemical cell based‐sensing device. This was determined by measuring the cell index, based on the impedance analysis of bare and cell‐covered microelectrodes. The fabrication of the electrodes on a glass substrate enabled the capture of high‐resolution fluorescence microscopy images of single cells and related intracellular calcium release inside the HeLa cells via a window incorporated into the gold microelectrode design. As an illustration of the enhanced capability of the combined approach over traditional impedance cellular assay, the opto‐electric assay was utilized as a functional readout for G protein couple receptor activation. The simultaneous examinations of cells stimulated with histamine demonstrated an association between time courses of changes in cytosolic calcium concentration and reductions in cell‐cell adhesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tremendous impact of UV radiation on every individual has resulted in massive interest in development of new sensor technologies to effectively monitor the solar exposure. However, there is no comprehensive review that critically discusses the advances made in the field of wearable UV sensor technologies and to position them as next‐generation mass‐deployable wearable devices. Herein, this gap is addressed by first classifying UV detection technologies into photoelectric and photochromic systems and summarizing their unique strengths and drawbacks. This is followed by a discussion on the integration of novel materials and design concepts with these technologies to develop wearable UV sensors. Then, the commercially available wearable UV sensors are examined thoroughly together with their limitations. Toward the end, a highly critical future outlook is provided, wherein the role of technological and regulatory interventions in assisting the development and integration of wearable UV sensors in the day‐to‐day activities is discussed. More importantly, the purpose of this review is not only to provide an in‐depth understanding of the underlying UV detection mechanism, design principles, and wearable technologies but also to act as a roadmap for those interested in the development and regulation of commercially deployable wearable UV sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein is explored a dual optical and electrical cell based biosensor that can provide insights into cellular events. The fabrication steps along with the electrical characterization of the microelectrodes is described. Initial experiments show that the ability of indium tin oxide (ITO) to detect biological cells at the electrode‐cell layer interface mainly depends on the size of sensing area. Following this, the impact of conductivity was also explored to assess the real time impedance signal during the adhesion of a non‐confluent layer of the cells on different substrates. Electrodes with a higher conductivity than ITO gave much higher senstivity of impedance changes which allowed the dynamics of subtle cellular morphology changes to be monitored at densities far lower than a confluent layer of cells. Finally, the capability of ITO and gold microelectrode as a functional readout for G protein couple receptor activation were determined. These set of analyses highlighted the challenges and opportunities of ITO substrate as a dual cell‐based assay for quantitative analysis of subtle changes in cell morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geneva), Johan Bobacka (Åbo Akademi Univ.), Philippe Bühlmann (Univ. Minnesota), Daniel Citterio (Keio Univ.), Justin Gooding (Univ. With much anticipation after a one-year delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mátrafüred International Conference on Electrochemical Sensors was held June 12-17, 2022, in Visegrád, Hungary. Serge Lemay (Univ. Twente), Peter Lieberzeit (Univ. Vienna), Tom Lindfors (Åbo Akademi Univ.), Daniel Mandler (Hebrew Univ. Jerusalem), Agata Michalska (Univ. Warsaw), Karin Mölling (Univ. Zürich), Frieder Scheller (Univ. Potsdam), Joseph Wang (Univ. California San Diego). [Extracted from the article]

Review: [71 refs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes a biophysical method for studying DNA-drug interactions based on changes to the structure of double stranded DNA (dsDNA) upon drug binding. According to the authors, the method relies on charge transfer to a redox species that has intercalated into the dsDNA base-pair stack. The authors use the technique to determine the kinetics of formation of complete DNA duplexes.

Investigates the electron transfer properties of redox enzymes attached to carbon nanotubes. Summary of the electrode fabrication; Modification of the electrode with oxidatively shortened pyrolytic graphite; Evidence of the representation of aligned bundles of nanotubes.

We report on the light-induced systematic changes to the thermodynamics and kinetics of ferrocene units attached to a n-type silicon(100) photoelectrode. Both the reaction rate and the energetics of the charge transfer are simultaneously affected by changes in the intensity of the incident light. Cyclic voltammetry shows that increases in the intensity of illumination can drive the redox process toward less positive potentials, with a downhill shift in E1/2 of ca. 160 mV by increasing the light intensity from 3 to 94 mW cm-2. However, this thermodynamic shift is paralleled by an increase in the kinetics of the charge transfer. This latter observation light-induced kinetic effects at monolayers on silicon electrodes is made possible only by the stability of the surface chemistry construct. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance measurements showed that the electrodes exhibit faster electron-transfer kinetics under illumination than previously reported for ferrocene-terminated highly doped silicon (around 1 order of magnitude faster). An explanation for the kinetic effects is proposed on the basis of the consistent increase in photogenerated charge carriers inside silicon and the enlarged potential difference between the valence band of silicon and the surface-attached ferrocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which explores the synthesis of hierarchical metal nanostructures with high electrocatalytic surface areas. It mentions that findings of the study illustrate the effectiveness of the three-dimensional nanostructures as electrocatalyst supports by coating with nickel-iron oxyhydroxide to achieve high activity and stability for oxygen evolution reaction.

Presents a letter to the editor about movies as a wonderful medium for sparking the interest of students.

Impact experiments enable single particle analysis for many applications. However, the effect of the trajectory of a particle to an electrode on impact signals still requires further exploration. Here, we investigate the particle impact measurements versus motion using micromotors with controllable vertical motion. With biocatalytic cascade reactions, the micromotor system utilizes buoyancy as the driving force, thus enabling more regulated interactions with the electrode. With the aid of numerical simulations, the dynamic interactions between the electrode and micromotors are categorized into four representative patterns: approaching, departing, approaching‐and‐departing, and departing‐and‐reapproaching, which correspond well with the experimentally observed impact signals. This study offers a possibility of exploring the dynamic interactions between the electrode and particles, shedding light on the design of new electrochemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impact experiments enable single particle analysis for many applications. However, the effect of the trajectory of a particle to an electrode on impact signals still requires further exploration. Here, we investigate the particle impact measurements versus motion using micromotors with controllable vertical motion. With biocatalytic cascade reactions, the micromotor system utilizes buoyancy as the driving force, thus enabling more regulated interactions with the electrode. With the aid of numerical simulations, the dynamic interactions between the electrode and micromotors are categorized into four representative patterns: approaching, departing, approaching‐and‐departing, and departing‐and‐reapproaching, which correspond well with the experimentally observed impact signals. This study offers a possibility of exploring the dynamic interactions between the electrode and particles, shedding light on the design of new electrochemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is directly integrated with low temperature plasma ionisation mass spectrometry to rapidly detect organophosphate chemical warfare agent simulants and their hydrolysis products in chemical mixtures, including urine. In this sampling and ionization method, the fibre serves: (i) to extract molecules from their native environment, and (ii) as the ionization electrode that is used to desorb and ionize molecules directly from the SPME surface. By use of a custom fabricated SPME fibre consisting of a stainless steel needle coated with a Linde Type A (LTA) zeolitic microporous material and low temperature plasma mass spectrometry, protonated dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), diethyl ethylphosphonate (DEEP) and pinacolyl methylphosphonic acid (PinMPA) can be detected at less than 100 ppb directly in water and urine. Organophosphates were not readily detected by this approach using an uncoated needle in negative control experiments. The use of the LTA coating significantly outperformed the use of a high alumina Zeolite Socony Mobil-5 (ZSM-5) coating of comparable thickness that is significantly less polar than LTA. By conditioning the LTA probe by immersion in an aqueous CuSO4 solution, the ion abundance for protonated DMMP increased by more than 300% compared to that obtained without any conditioning. Sample recovery values were between 96 and 100% for each analyte. The detection of chemical warfare agent analogues and hydrolysis products required less than 2 min per sample. A key advantage of this sampling and ionization method is that analyte ions can be directly and rapidly sampled from chemical mixtures, such as urine and seawater, without sample preparation or chromatography for sensitive detection by mass spectrometry. This ion source should prove beneficial for portable mass spectrometry applications because relatively low detection limits can be obtained without the use of compressed gases, fluid pumps, and lasers. Moreover, the ion source is compact, can be powered with a 10 V battery, and is tolerant of complex mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Targeted drug delivery in cancer typically focuses on maximising the endocytosis of drugs into the diseased cells. However, there has been less focus on exploiting the differences in the endocytosis pathways of cancer cells versus non-cancer cells. An understanding of the endocytosis pathways in both cancer and non-cancer cells allows for the design of nanoparticles to deliver drugs to cancer cells whilst restricting healthy cells from taking up anticancer drugs, thus efficiently killing the cancer cells. Herein we compare the differences in the endocytosis pathways of cancer and healthy cells. Second, we highlight the importance of the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles (size, shape, stiffness, and surface chemistry) on cellular uptake and how they can be adjusted to selectively target the dominated endocytosis pathway of cancer cells over healthy cells and to deliver anticancer drug to the target cells. The review generates new thought in the design of cancer-selective nanoparticles based on the endocytosis pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanopores are promising sensing devices that can be used for the detection of analytes at the single molecule level. It is of importance to understand and model the current response of a nanopore sensor for improving the sensitivity of the sensor, a better interpretation of the behaviours of different analytes in confined nanoscale spaces, and quantitative analysis of the properties of the targets. The current response of a nanopore sensor, usually called a resistive pulse, results from the change in nanopore resistance when an analyte translocates through the nanopore. This article reviews the theoretical models used for the calculation of the resistance of the nanopore, and the corresponding change in nanopore resistance due to a translocation event. Models focus on the resistance of the pore cavity region and the access region of the nanopore. The influence of the sizes, shapes and surface charges of the translocating species and the nanopore, as well as the trajectory that the analyte follows are also discussed. This review aims to give a general guidance to the audience for understanding the current response of a nanopore sensor and the application of this class of sensor to a broad range of species with the theoretical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanoparticles and nanostructured electrodes are abundant in electrocatalysis. These nanometric systems contain elements of nanoconfinement in different degrees, depending on the geometry, which can have a much greater effect on the activity and selectivity than often considered. In this Review, we firstly identify the systems containing different degrees of nanoconfinement and how they can affect the activity and selectivity of electrocatalytic reactions. Then we follow with a fundamental understanding of how electrochemistry and electrocatalysis are affected by nanoconfinement, which is beginning to be uncovered, thanks to the development of new, atomically precise manufacturing and fabrication techniques as well as advances in theoretical modeling. The aim of this Review is to help us look beyond using nanostructuring as just a way to increase surface area, but also as a way to break the scaling relations imposed on electrocatalysis by thermodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Die Verwendung von Nanopartikeln und nanostrukturierten Elektroden ist in der Elektrokatalyse weit verbreitet. Diese nanometrischen Systeme enthalten je nach Geometrie Elemente des Nanoconfinements in unterschiedlichem Ausmaß, was sich viel stärker auf die Aktivität und Selektivität auswirken kann, als oft angenommen wird. In diesem Aufsatz identifizieren wir zunächst die Systeme, die unterschiedliche Grade von Nanoconfinement enthalten, und zeigen, wie sie die Aktivität und Selektivität elektrokatalytischer Reaktionen beeinflussen können. Anschließend wird ein grundlegendes Verständnis der Auswirkungen des Nanoconfinements auf die Elektrochemie und Elektrokatalyse vermittelt, das dank der Entwicklung neuer, atomar präziser Herstellungs‐ und Fertigungstechniken und Fortschritten bei der theoretischen Modellierung allmählich erschlossen wird. Diese Übersicht soll dabei helfen, die Nanostrukturierung nicht nur zur Vergrößerung der Oberfläche zu nutzen, sondern auch die thermodynamisch bedingten Skalierungsbeziehungen in der Elektrokatalyse zu durchbrechen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymersomes provide a good platform for targeted drug delivery and the creation of complex (bio)catalytically active systems for research in synthetic biology. To realize these applications requires both spatial control over the encapsulation components in these polymersomes and a means to report where the components are in the polymersomes. To address these twin challenges, we synthesized the protein-polymer bioconjugate PNIPAM- b-amilFP497 composed of thermoresponsive poly( N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and a green-fluorescent protein variant (amilFP497). Above 37 °C, this bioconjugate forms polymersomes that can (co-)encapsulate the fluorescent drug doxorubicin and the fluorescent light-harvesting protein phycoerythrin 545 (PE545). Using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and Förster resonance energy transfer (FLIM-FRET), we can distinguish the co-encapsulated PE545 protein inside the polymersome membrane while doxorubicin is found both in the polymersome core and membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the fluorescence and biocompatibility of hydrophilic silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) that are doped with scandium (Sc-SiQDs), copper (Cu-SiQDs), and zinc (Zn-SiQDs), indicating their feasibility for the bioimaging of tear film. SiQDs were investigated for fluorescence emission by the in vitro imaging of artificial tears (TheraTears®), using an optical imaging system. A trypan blue exclusion test and MTT assay were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of SiQDs to cultured human corneal epithelial cells. No difference was observed between the fluorescence emission of Sc-SiQDs and Cu-SiQDs at any concentration. On average, SiQDs showed stable fluorescence, while Sc-SiQDs and Cu-SiQDs showed brighter fluorescence emissions than Zn-SiQDs. Cu-SiQDs and Sc-SiQDs showed a broader safe concentration range than Zn-SiQDs. Cu-SiQDs and Zn-SiQDs tend to aggregate more substantially in TheraTears® than Sc-SiQDs. This study elucidates the feasibility of hydrophilic Sc-SiQDs in studying the tear film's aqueous layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three series of ruthenium complexes with the general formula Ru(bpy)n(β-diketonato)3-n (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, n = 0, 1, 2) were prepared and investigated using cyclic voltammetry and UV-vis spectroscopy. Variation of both the number and electronic demand of the β-diketonato ligands resulted in well-defined modulation of the potential at which oxidation of the metal centre occurred. The observed potentials were shown to be in good agreement with calculated ligand electrochemical parameters. A novel ruthenium(II) complex with electrochemical behaviour similar to that of ferrocene was identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns over possible toxicities of conventional metal-containing quantum dots have inspired growing research interests in colloidal silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs), or silicon quantum dots (SiQDs). This is related to their potential applications in a number of fields such as solar cells, optoelectronic devices and fluorescent bio-labelling agents. The past decade has seen significant progress in the understanding of fundamental physics and surface properties of silicon nanocrystals. Such understanding is based on the advances in the preparation and characterization of surface passivated colloidal silicon nanocrystals. In this critical review, we summarize recent advances in the methods of preparing high quality silicon nanocrystals and strategies for forming self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), with a focus on their bioapplications. We highlight some of the major challenges that remain, as well as lessons learnt when working with silicon nanocrystals (239 references) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer (ET) reactions through molecules attached to surfaces, whether they are through single molecules or ensembles, are the subject of much research in molecular electronics, bioelectronics, and electrochemistry. Therefore, understanding the factors that govern ET is of high importance. The availability of rigid hydrocarbon molecular scaffolds possessing well-defined configurations and lengths that can be systematically varied is crucial to the development of such devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An amperometric immunosensor for glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is reported. A glassy carbon electrode is modified with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) bearing a ferrocene derivative and a glycosylated pentapeptide (GPP) as an epitope to which anti-HbA1c IgG can selectively bind. The rest of the electrode is passivated with an oligo(ethylene oxide) species to give the electrode resistant to nonspecific adsorption of proteins. Complexation of anti-HbA1c IgG with the surface bound epitope resulted in attenuation of the ferrocene electrochemistry. The immunosensor can detect HbA1c in the range of 4.6 %-15.1 % of total hemoglobin in human blood by a competitive inhibition assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The determination of nitroaromatic compounds in aqueous solution was investigated at β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)/silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) composite modified ITO electrodes. This method relies on the different reduction potentials for the various nitroaromatic isomers, the different binding strengths of the nitroaromatic isomer guests to the β-CD host, and excellent electron transfer ability of AgNPs. After incubation in a solution with different single nitroaromatic compounds, reduction peaks in the range from -550 to -913 mV were observed at the modified electrode, depending on the nitroaromatic compound present. The sensor exhibited selectivity for some isomers in a solution containing a mixture of nitroaromatic compounds. In particular, the sensor shows specificity for 4-nitroaniline and 1-chloro-2-nitrobenzene over other nitroaniline isomers and nitrochlorobenzene isomers, respectively. The results show that all the nitroaromatic compounds, 2-nitroaniline, 3-nitroaniline, 4-nitroaniline, 1-chloro-2-nitrobenzene, 1-chloro-3-nitrobenzene, and 1-chloro-4-nitrobenzene, could not only be detected but the electrode demonstrated a preference for the more strongly complexing species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based sensors are a new alternative technology for fabricating simple, low-cost, portable and disposable analytical devices for many application areas including clinical diagnosis, food quality control and environmental monitoring. The unique properties of paper which allow passive liquid transport and compatibility with chemicals/biochemicals are the main advantages of using paper as a sensing platform. Depending on the main goal to be achieved in paper-based sensors, the fabrication methods and the analysis techniques can be tuned to fulfill the needs of the end-user. Current paper-based sensors are focused on microfluidic delivery of solution to the detection site whereas more advanced designs involve complex 3-D geometries based on the same microfluidic principles. Although paper-based sensors are very promising, they still suffer from certain limitations such as accuracy and sensitivity. However, it is anticipated that in the future, with advances in fabrication and analytical techniques, that there will be more new and innovative developments in paper-based sensors. These sensors could better meet the current objectives of a viable low-cost and portable device in addition to offering high sensitivity and selectivity, and multiple analyte discrimination. This paper is a review of recent advances in paper-based sensors and covers the following topics: existing fabrication techniques, analytical methods and application areas. Finally, the present challenges and future outlooks are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A label-free immunosensor for the detection of HbA1c was developed based on gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-aryl diazonium salt modified glassy carbon (GC) electrode where transduction is achieved using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). GC electrodes were first modified with 4-aminophenyl (Ph-NH2) layers to which AuNPs were attached. Thereafter an oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG-COOH) species were covalently attached to the remaining free amine groups on the Ph-NH2 surface. The AuNP surfaces were further modified with Ph-NH2 followed by attachment of a glycosylated pentapeptide (GPP), an analogon to HbA1c. Exposure of this interface to anti-HbA1c IgG resulted in a change in charge transfer resistance ( Rct) due to the anti-HbA1c IgG selectively complexing to the surface bound GPP. To detect the amount of HbA1c, a competitive inhibition assay was employed where the surface bound GPP and HbA1c in solution compete for the anti-HbA1c IgG antibodies. The higher the concentration of HbA1c, the less antibody binds to the sensing interface and the lower the change of Rct. The response of the immunosensor is linear with the HbA1c% of total haemoglobin in the range of 0%-23.3%. This competitive inhibition assay can be used for the detection of HbA1c in human blood. The performance of the immunosensor for detection of HbA1c in human blood is comparable to the clinical laboratory method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic functionalization of non-oxidized silicon surfaces, while allowing for robust chemical passivation of the inorganic substrate, is intended and expected to broaden the chemical, physical and electronic properties of the currently most relevant technological material. Numerous protocols are now available for the preparation of Si-C, Si-O and Si-N bound layers. In particular, the covalent attachment of 1-alkenes and 1-alkynes onto hydride-terminated Si(100) and Si(111) has seen a wealth of research activity starting from the pioneering work of Linford and Chidsey (Alkyl monolayers covalently bonded to silicon surfaces, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1993, 115(26), 12631-12632). This critical review aims to bring together the available wet-chemical routes toward the formation of silicon-organic monolayers under ambient conditions. Particular emphasis is placed on discussing the reasons behind the need for novel chemical approaches that are straightforward, modular and of wide scope so as to allow the application of silicon electrodes in aqueous electrolytes. A general introduction to biomolecular recognition events at functionalized silicon surfaces is also presented (281 references). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]