Exploring the potential of inherent chiral single-walled carbon nanotubes in enantioselective electrochemical sensing: A novel microsensor for discriminating DOPA enantiomers

Abstract

A range of electrochemical sensors capable of enantiomer discrimination have been developed, but the creation of their electrochemical interfaces remains complex. This often entails combining externally introduced chiral centers with conductive materials. This study marks a significant departure from this approach by exploiting the inherent chirality of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for enantiomer discrimination. We have crafted a miniaturized, enantioselective electrochemical microsensor by seamlessly integrating high-purity SWCNTs, possessing inherent chirality, with an ultra-sensitive carbon fiber microelectrode. Using differential pulse voltammetry, we observed a notable difference in peak current, highlighting the sensor's precise ability to distinguish between enantiomers of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA). Furthermore, we investigated the intricacies of the interplay between enantioselective interfaces and the molecules under discrimination, offering deeper insights into the mechanisms governing this phenomenon. This study provides substantial momentum into the realm of enantioselective electrochemical sensing and sheds light on the unique attributes of inherently chiral carbon nanotubes in such applications. This paves the way for a new breed of chiral sensors that are simpler, more efficient, and cost-effective.