Laser-induced graphene electrodes/Nd-MOF hybrid platform for selective electrochemical detection of cancer cells

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Barlas F. B., Ölçeroğlu B., Bayazit Ş. S., Tabak E.

Materials Today Nano, cilt.35, sa.10, ss.100945-100950, 2026 (SCI-Expanded)

Özet

In this study, a novel electrochemical biosensing platform was developed for the selective detection of cancer cells based on a laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrode modified with neodymium-based metal–organic frameworks (Nd-MOFs). The Nd-MOF structures were synthesized using aminoterephthalic acid and subsequently functionalized with folic acid (FA) via EDC/NHS coupling to enable targeted recognition of folate receptor-overexpressing cells. The hybrid Gr/Nd-MOF-FA interface combines the conductive graphene framework with the high surface area and abundant functional sites of the Nd-MOF, enabling efficient folic acid immobilization and selective cancer cell recognition. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized materials were characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses, confirming successful MOF formation, amine functionalization, and FA conjugation. Electrochemical behavior was systematically evaluated using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The developed biosensor exhibited a strong and selective response toward folate receptor-overexpressing HeLa cells, while only negligible interaction was observed with the folate receptor-low A549 cell line, confirming the selective recognition enabled by folic acid functionalization. The sensor demonstrated a sensitive detection capability with a limit of detection (LOD) of 236 cells for the HeLa cell line. Fluorescence imaging and proliferation assays further supported the biocompatibility and targeted interaction of the functionalized surfaces. Additionally, LIG surfaces exhibited intrinsic fluorescence properties attributed to graphene composite, enabling potential integration of optical sensing capabilities. Overall, this study presents a multifunctional and highly sensitive biosensing platform that combines electrochemical and optical features. The proposed platform may serve as a versatile tool for evaluating for future investigations into cancer cell detection, cell monitoring, and other biomedical applications, including diagnostic and theranostic strategies.