A new electrochemical biosensor based on graphene oxide for rapid detection of synthetic testosterone as performance-enhancing drugs in athletes

Abstract

This study showcases the successful development of a hybrid reduced graphene oxide-metal organic framework modified glassy carbon electrode (rGO-MOFs/GCE) electrochemical biosensor for the detection of synthetic testosterone (TST) as a performance-enhancing drug in athletes. The results demonstrate a linear relationship between the voltametric responses and the testosterone concentration, indicating the sensor's effectiveness in measuring TST. Furthermore, the sensor's performance in detecting TST in real human serum samples from athletes was also validated. The sensor's linear range and detection limit are comparable, if not superior, to those of other recently developed electrochemical sensors, positioning it as a promising tool for TST detection. Additionally, the method's selectivity was assessed and found to be unaffected by substances typically present in biological fluids and food samples, further affirming the sensor's reliability. The application of the rGO/MOF/GCE sensor to detecting and quantifying TST in actual human serum samples yielded favorable results. The synergistic effects of rGO and MOF, which improve the electrical conductivity and biocompatibility of MOF and the porosity and catalytic activity of rGO, are responsible for the sensor's enhanced performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, stability, and response time. These findings underscore the potential of the rGO/MOF/GCE sensor platform for various biomedical applications.