Tailored multi-layer graphene arrays for precision detection of neurotransmitter

Abstract

The development of sensitive dopamine (DA) sensors has significantly contributed to our understanding of DA-related disorders and has enabled advancements in medical diagnostics and neuroscience research. Therefore, in the present work, a novel electrochemical sensing platform was developed using multi-layer graphene arrays (MGA) modified electrodes for the selective detection of DA. The preparation of high-quality MGA was achieved using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PCVD) method and was confirmed using various physiochemical techniques such as transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The modified electrode, made of MGA, was utilized for the electrochemical detection of DA using cyclic voltammetry and amperometry i-t methods. DA’s electrochemical oxidation response and sensitivity at the MGA electrode were ≈9 and 3 times higher than observed with unmodified and commercially available multi-layer graphene-modified electrodes. The MGA sensor exhibited excellent analytical parameters for DA detection, including a wide linear range of up to 172.1 μM and a low detection limit of 1.3 nM. The sensor also demonstrated remarkable sensitivity, storage stability, and selectivity for DA detection, making it highly suitable for accurately detecting DA in medical diagnostics and neuroscience research. Furthermore, the practical application of the MGA sensor for DA detection was demonstrated in various real samples.