Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications

A special issue of Biosensors (ISSN 2079-6374). This special issue belongs to the section "Biosensors and Healthcare".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2023) | Viewed by 37244

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School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
Interests: biosensors; nanomaterials; stem cell differentiation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
Interests: biomaterials; biomedical application; theranostics; nanomedicine; biosensors
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The advances in nano/microtechnologies in recent years have significantly improved biosensors in terms of their viability for biomedical purposes, from diagnostic to therapeutic applications, allowing for effective early detection and personalized treatment modalities. Specifically, the introduction of a variety of nano/microtechnologies has offered new opportunities to improve the sensitivity, selectivity, response time, and biocompatibility of biosensors through outstanding physical, chemical, electrical and electrochemical properties. 

Of great interest, this Special Issue aims to highlight the most recent and promising nano/microtechnologies utilized in the development of biosensors for biomedical applications. Thus, here we cordially invite you to contribute original research or review papers aligned with these themes, to lead the new approaches and solutions to a next-generation biosensor for biomedical applications. 

Prof. Dr. Jin-Ho Lee
Prof. Dr. Ki Su Kim
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • biosensors
  • nano/micromaterials
  • microsystem
  • physical
  • chemical
  • electrical
  • electrochemical

Published Papers (11 papers)

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Editorial

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4 pages, 137 KiB  
Editorial
Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications
by Jin-Ho Lee and Ki Su Kim
Biosensors 2024, 14(2), 58; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios14020058 - 23 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1296
Abstract
Advances in nano/micro technologies in recent years have significantly improved biosensors in terms of their viability for biomedical purposes, from diagnostic to therapeutic applications, allowing for effective early detection and personalized treatment modalities [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)

Research

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14 pages, 2907 KiB  
Article
Fluorescent Alloyed CdZnSeS/ZnS Nanosensor for Doxorubicin Detection
by Svetlana A. Mescheryakova, Ivan S. Matlakhov, Pavel D. Strokin, Daniil D. Drozd, Irina Yu. Goryacheva and Olga A. Goryacheva
Biosensors 2023, 13(6), 596; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios13060596 - 31 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1842
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used in chemotherapy as an anti-tumor drug. However, DOX is highly cardio-, neuro- and cytotoxic. For this reason, the continuous monitoring of DOX concentrations in biofluids and tissues is important. Most methods for the determination of DOX concentrations are [...] Read more.
Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used in chemotherapy as an anti-tumor drug. However, DOX is highly cardio-, neuro- and cytotoxic. For this reason, the continuous monitoring of DOX concentrations in biofluids and tissues is important. Most methods for the determination of DOX concentrations are complex and costly, and are designed to determine pure DOX. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the capabilities of analytical nanosensors based on the quenching of the fluorescence of alloyed CdZnSeS/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) for operative DOX detection. To maximize the nanosensor quenching efficiency, the spectral features of QDs and DOX were carefully studied, and the complex nature of QD fluorescence quenching in the presence of DOX was shown. Using optimized conditions, turn-off fluorescence nanosensors for direct DOX determination in undiluted human plasma were developed. A DOX concentration of 0.5 µM in plasma was reflected in a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of QDs, stabilized with thioglycolic and 3-mercaptopropionic acids, for 5.8 and 4.4 %, respectively. The calculated Limit of Detection values were 0.08 and 0.03 μg/mL using QDs, stabilized with thioglycolic and 3-mercaptopropionic acids, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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13 pages, 3048 KiB  
Article
Developing a Fluorescent Inducible System for Free Fucose Quantification in Escherichia coli
by Samantha Nuñez, Maria Barra and Daniel Garrido
Biosensors 2023, 13(3), 388; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios13030388 - 15 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1928
Abstract
L-Fucose is a monosaccharide abundant in mammalian glycoconjugates. In humans, fucose can be found in human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), mucins, and glycoproteins in the intestinal epithelium. The bacterial consumption of fucose and fucosylated HMOs is critical in the gut microbiome assembly of infants, [...] Read more.
L-Fucose is a monosaccharide abundant in mammalian glycoconjugates. In humans, fucose can be found in human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), mucins, and glycoproteins in the intestinal epithelium. The bacterial consumption of fucose and fucosylated HMOs is critical in the gut microbiome assembly of infants, dominated by Bifidobacterium. Fucose metabolism is important for the production of short-chain fatty acids and is involved in cross-feeding microbial interactions. Methods for assessing fucose concentrations in complex media are lacking. Here we designed and developed a molecular quantification method of free fucose using fluorescent Escherichia coli. For this, low- and high-copy plasmids were evaluated with and without the transcription factor fucR and its respective fucose-inducible promoter controlling the reporter gene sfGFP. E. coli BL21 transformed with a high copy plasmid containing pFuc and fucR displayed a high resolution across increasing fucose concentrations and high fluorescence/OD values after 18 h. The molecular circuit was specific against other monosaccharides and showed a linear response in the 0–45 mM range. Adjusting data to the Hill equation suggested non-cooperative, simple regulation of FucR to its promoter. Finally, the biosensor was tested on different concentrations of free fucose and the supernatant of Bifidobacterium bifidum JCM 1254 supplemented with 2-fucosyl lactose, indicating the applicability of the method in detecting free fucose. In conclusion, a bacterial biosensor of fucose was validated with good sensitivity and precision. A biological method for quantifying fucose could be useful for nutraceutical and microbiological applications, as well as molecular diagnostics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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Review

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22 pages, 3418 KiB  
Review
Enzymatic Electrochemical/Fluorescent Nanobiosensor for Detection of Small Chemicals
by Hye Kyu Choi and Jinho Yoon
Biosensors 2023, 13(4), 492; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios13040492 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2482
Abstract
The detection of small molecules has attracted enormous interest in various fields, including the chemical, biological, and healthcare fields. In order to achieve such detection with high accuracy, up to now, various types of biosensors have been developed. Among those biosensors, enzymatic biosensors [...] Read more.
The detection of small molecules has attracted enormous interest in various fields, including the chemical, biological, and healthcare fields. In order to achieve such detection with high accuracy, up to now, various types of biosensors have been developed. Among those biosensors, enzymatic biosensors have shown excellent sensing performances via their highly specific enzymatic reactions with small chemical molecules. As techniques used to implement the sensing function of such enzymatic biosensors, electrochemical and fluorescence techniques have been mostly used for the detection of small molecules because of their advantages. In addition, through the incorporation of nanotechnologies, the detection property of each technique-based enzymatic nanobiosensors can be improved to measure harmful or important small molecules accurately. This review provides interdisciplinary information related to developing enzymatic nanobiosensors for small molecule detection, such as widely used enzymes, target small molecules, and electrochemical/fluorescence techniques. We expect that this review will provide a broad perspective and well-organized roadmap to develop novel electrochemical and fluorescent enzymatic nanobiosensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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16 pages, 2828 KiB  
Review
Plasmon Modulated Upconversion Biosensors
by Anara Molkenova, Hye Eun Choi, Jeong Min Park, Jin-Ho Lee and Ki Su Kim
Biosensors 2023, 13(3), 306; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios13030306 - 22 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2196
Abstract
Over the past two decades, lanthanide-based upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have been fascinating scientists due to their ability to offer unprecedented prospects to upconvert tissue-penetrating near-infrared light into color-tailorable optical illumination inside biological matter. In particular, luminescent behavior UCNPs have been widely utilized for [...] Read more.
Over the past two decades, lanthanide-based upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have been fascinating scientists due to their ability to offer unprecedented prospects to upconvert tissue-penetrating near-infrared light into color-tailorable optical illumination inside biological matter. In particular, luminescent behavior UCNPs have been widely utilized for background-free biorecognition and biosensing. Currently, a paramount challenge exists on how to maximize NIR light harvesting and upconversion efficiencies for achieving faster response and better sensitivity without damaging the biological tissue upon laser assisted photoactivation. In this review, we offer the reader an overview of the recent updates about exciting achievements and challenges in the development of plasmon-modulated upconversion nanoformulations for biosensing application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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17 pages, 1748 KiB  
Review
Proteolytic Biosensors with Functional Nanomaterials: Current Approaches and Future Challenges
by Jin-Ha Choi
Biosensors 2023, 13(2), 171; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios13020171 - 21 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1906
Abstract
Proteolytic enzymes are one of the important biomarkers that enable the early diagnosis of several diseases, such as cancers. A specific proteolytic enzyme selectively degrades a certain sequence of a polypeptide. Therefore, a particular proteolytic enzyme can be selectively quantified by changing detectable [...] Read more.
Proteolytic enzymes are one of the important biomarkers that enable the early diagnosis of several diseases, such as cancers. A specific proteolytic enzyme selectively degrades a certain sequence of a polypeptide. Therefore, a particular proteolytic enzyme can be selectively quantified by changing detectable signals causing degradation of the peptide chain. In addition, by combining polypeptides with various functional nanomaterials, proteolytic enzymes can be measured more sensitively and rapidly. In this paper, proteolytic enzymes that can be measured using a polypeptide degradation method are reviewed and recently studied functional nanomaterials-based proteolytic biosensors are discussed. We anticipate that the proteolytic nanobiosensors addressed in this review will provide valuable information on physiological changes from a cellular level for individual and early diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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33 pages, 5794 KiB  
Review
Micro-/Nano-Structured Biodegradable Pressure Sensors for Biomedical Applications
by Yoo-Kyum Shin, Yujin Shin, Jung Woo Lee and Min-Ho Seo
Biosensors 2022, 12(11), 952; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios12110952 - 01 Nov 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3391
Abstract
The interest in biodegradable pressure sensors in the biomedical field is growing because of their temporary existence in wearable and implantable applications without any biocompatibility issues. In contrast to the limited sensing performance and biocompatibility of initially developed biodegradable pressure sensors, device performances [...] Read more.
The interest in biodegradable pressure sensors in the biomedical field is growing because of their temporary existence in wearable and implantable applications without any biocompatibility issues. In contrast to the limited sensing performance and biocompatibility of initially developed biodegradable pressure sensors, device performances and functionalities have drastically improved owing to the recent developments in micro-/nano-technologies including device structures and materials. Thus, there is greater possibility of their use in diagnosis and healthcare applications. This review article summarizes the recent advances in micro-/nano-structured biodegradable pressure sensor devices. In particular, we focus on the considerable improvement in performance and functionality at the device-level that has been achieved by adapting the geometrical design parameters in the micro- and nano-meter range. First, the material choices and sensing mechanisms available for fabricating micro-/nano-structured biodegradable pressure sensor devices are discussed. Then, this is followed by a historical development in the biodegradable pressure sensors. In particular, we highlight not only the fabrication methods and performances of the sensor device, but also their biocompatibility. Finally, we intoduce the recent examples of the micro/nano-structured biodegradable pressure sensor for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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27 pages, 4542 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances of Point-of-Care Devices Integrated with Molecularly Imprinted Polymers-Based Biosensors: From Biomolecule Sensing Design to Intraoral Fluid Testing
by Rowoon Park, Sangheon Jeon, Jeonghwa Jeong, Shin-Young Park, Dong-Wook Han and Suck Won Hong
Biosensors 2022, 12(3), 136; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios12030136 - 22 Feb 2022
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6668
Abstract
Recent developments of point-of-care testing (POCT) and in vitro diagnostic medical devices have provided analytical capabilities and reliable diagnostic results for rapid access at or near the patient’s location. Nevertheless, the challenges of reliable diagnosis still remain an important factor in actual clinical [...] Read more.
Recent developments of point-of-care testing (POCT) and in vitro diagnostic medical devices have provided analytical capabilities and reliable diagnostic results for rapid access at or near the patient’s location. Nevertheless, the challenges of reliable diagnosis still remain an important factor in actual clinical trials before on-site medical treatment and making clinical decisions. New classes of POCT devices depict precise diagnostic technologies that can detect biomarkers in biofluids such as sweat, tears, saliva or urine. The introduction of a novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) system as an artificial bioreceptor for the POCT devices could be one of the emerging candidates to improve the analytical performance along with physicochemical stability when used in harsh environments. Here, we review the potential availability of MIP-based biorecognition systems as custom artificial receptors with high selectivity and chemical affinity for specific molecules. Further developments to the progress of advanced MIP technology for biomolecule recognition are introduced. Finally, to improve the POCT-based diagnostic system, we summarized the perspectives for high expandability to MIP-based periodontal diagnosis and the future directions of MIP-based biosensors as a wearable format. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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20 pages, 2381 KiB  
Review
Improving Biosensors by the Use of Different Nanomaterials: Case Study with Microcystins as Target Analytes
by Hanbin Park, Gahyeon Kim, Yoseph Seo, Yejin Yoon, Junhong Min, Chulhwan Park and Taek Lee
Biosensors 2021, 11(12), 525; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios11120525 - 20 Dec 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3406
Abstract
The eutrophication of lakes and rivers without adequate rainfall leads to excessive growth of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) that produce toxicants, green tides, and unpleasant odors. The rapid growth of CyanoHABs owing to global warming, climate change, and the development of rainforests [...] Read more.
The eutrophication of lakes and rivers without adequate rainfall leads to excessive growth of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) that produce toxicants, green tides, and unpleasant odors. The rapid growth of CyanoHABs owing to global warming, climate change, and the development of rainforests and dams without considering the environmental concern towards lakes and rivers is a serious issue. Humans and livestock consuming the toxicant-contaminated water that originated from CyanoHABs suffer severe health problems. Among the various toxicants produced by CyanoHABs, microcystins (MCs) are the most harmful. Excess accumulation of MC within living organisms can result in liver failure and hepatocirrhosis, eventually leading to death. Therefore, it is essential to precisely detect MCs in water samples. To date, the liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) have been the standard methods for the detection of MC and provide precise results with high reliability. However, these methods require heavy instruments and complicated operation steps that could hamper the portability and field-readiness of the detection system. Therefore, in order for this goal to be achieved, the biosensor has been attracted to a powerful alternative for MC detection. Thus far, several types of MC biosensor have been proposed to detect MC in freshwater sample. The introduction of material is a useful option in order to improve the biosensor performance and construct new types of biosensors. Introducing nanomaterials to the biosensor interface provides new phenomena or enhances the sensitivity. In recent times, different types of nanomaterials, such as metallic, carbon-based, and transition metal dichalcogenide-based nanomaterials, have been developed and used to fabricate biosensors for MC detection. This study reviews the recent advancements in different nanomaterial-based MC biosensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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21 pages, 3088 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Multicellular Tumor Spheroid Generation for Drug Screening
by Kwang-Ho Lee and Tae-Hyung Kim
Biosensors 2021, 11(11), 445; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios11110445 - 11 Nov 2021
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5540
Abstract
Multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTs) have been employed in biomedical fields owing to their advantage in designing a three-dimensional (3D) solid tumor model. For controlling multicellular cancer spheroids, mimicking the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment is important to understand cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions. In [...] Read more.
Multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTs) have been employed in biomedical fields owing to their advantage in designing a three-dimensional (3D) solid tumor model. For controlling multicellular cancer spheroids, mimicking the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment is important to understand cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions. In drug cytotoxicity assessments, MCTs provide better mimicry of conventional solid tumors that can precisely represent anticancer drug candidates’ effects. To generate incubate multicellular spheroids, researchers have developed several 3D multicellular spheroid culture technologies to establish a research background and a platform using tumor modelingvia advanced materials science, and biosensing techniques for drug-screening. In application, drug screening was performed in both invasive and non-invasive manners, according to their impact on the spheroids. Here, we review the trend of 3D spheroid culture technology and culture platforms, and their combination with various biosensing techniques for drug screening in the biomedical field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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22 pages, 11293 KiB  
Review
Recent Trends in Exhaled Breath Diagnosis Using an Artificial Olfactory System
by Chuntae Kim, Iruthayapandi Selestin Raja, Jong-Min Lee, Jong Ho Lee, Moon Sung Kang, Seok Hyun Lee, Jin-Woo Oh and Dong-Wook Han
Biosensors 2021, 11(9), 337; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/bios11090337 - 14 Sep 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4969
Abstract
Artificial olfactory systems are needed in various fields that require real-time monitoring, such as healthcare. This review introduces cases of detection of specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a patient’s exhaled breath and discusses trends in disease diagnosis technology development using artificial olfactory [...] Read more.
Artificial olfactory systems are needed in various fields that require real-time monitoring, such as healthcare. This review introduces cases of detection of specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a patient’s exhaled breath and discusses trends in disease diagnosis technology development using artificial olfactory technology that analyzes exhaled human breath. We briefly introduce algorithms that classify patterns of odors (VOC profiles) and describe artificial olfactory systems based on nanosensors. On the basis of recently published research results, we describe the development trend of artificial olfactory systems based on the pattern-recognition gas sensor array technology and the prospects of application of this technology to disease diagnostic devices. Medical technologies that enable early monitoring of health conditions and early diagnosis of diseases are crucial in modern healthcare. By regularly monitoring health status, diseases can be prevented or treated at an early stage, thus increasing the human survival rate and reducing the overall treatment costs. This review introduces several promising technical fields with the aim of developing technologies that can monitor health conditions and diagnose diseases early by analyzing exhaled human breath in real time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano/Micro Biosensors for Biomedical Applications)
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