Aptamer-based electrochemical analysis platform for tumor cells and biomarkers detection

Abstract

Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer can effectively improve patient survival rates and quality of life. One of the best options for early screening strategies is to track tumor cells and their markers. There is also an urgent need to develop accurate, susceptible, rapid, non-invasive, and low-cost detection methods. Among them, standard detection techniques for tumor cells include immunohistochemistry and histopathology, but they are expensive and require professional personnel. Both tumor cells and normal cells can secrete biomarkers, which can be obtained from biological samples (such as blood, urine, serum, etc.). Tumor biomarkers may be significantly elevated or changed in individuals with tumors. Common tumor biomarkers include proteins, nucleic acids, etc. In recent years, aptamer-based electrochemical analysis methods have been widely used in cancer diagnosis. Aptamers are obtained through in vitro screening technology and have high selectivity and affinity, which can improve the sensitivity of electrochemical analysis technology. This article reviews the achievements of aptamer-based electrochemical analysis methods in detecting tumor cells and tumor markers and the challenges and development prospects in cancer diagnosis.