Exploring the potential of ionic liquid-based electrochemical biosensors for real-time biomolecule monitoring in pharmaceutical applications: From lab to life

Abstract

Ionic liquid-based electrochemical biosensors have recently surged to prominence as an intriguing technology with transformative potential for real-time biomolecule monitoring, notably within the dynamic pharmaceutical landscape. By demonstrating their adeptness in detecting an extensive array of biomolecules, encompassing glucose, hormones, nucleic acids, and pivotal biomarkers, these biosensors have substantiated their efficacy in monitoring and detecting biomolecules within the pharmaceutical sphere revealing excellent thermal stability, minimal volatility, and an expansive electrochemical working range. For instance, an electrochemical biosensor comprising a conducting polymer, graphene, gold nanoparticles, and ionic liquids exhibited exceptional sensitivity, with a limit of detection as low as 1 fM (at S/N = 3), a dynamic range of 3.2 fM to 0.32 pM, and remarkable long-term durability for aflatoxin B1 detection. In light of these compelling developments, for the first time, this review offers a comprehensive exploration of recent advancements and emergent trajectories (spanning majorly from 2019 to 2023) in the utilization of ionic liquid-based electrochemical biosensors, particularly in the context of detecting the aforementioned diverse biomolecules pertinent to the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the production of these biosensors, shedding light on their potential to reshape the future of pharmaceutical applications.

Keywords

• Ionic liquids
• Electrochemical biosensors
• Biomolecules
• Pharmaceutical applications
• LOD
• Linear range