Electrochemical biosensors for monitoring of selected pregnancy hormones during the first trimester: A systematic review

The hormones human chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone, estrogen and four of its metabolites (estradiol, estrone, estriol, estetrol), as well as relaxin play an essential role in the development of the fetus during the first trimester. Imbalances in these hormones during the first trimester have been directly linked to miscarriages. However, frequent monitoring of the hormones is limited by the current conventional centralized analytical tools that do not allow a rapid response time. Electrochemical sensing is considered an ideal tool to detect hormones owing to its advantages such as quick response, user-friendliness, low economic costs, and possibility of use in point-of-care settings. Electrochemical detection of pregnancy hormones is an emerging field that has been demonstrated primarily at research level. Thus, it is timely with a comprehensive overview of the characteristics of the reported detection techniques. This is the first extensive review focusing on the advances related to electrochemical detection of hormones linked to the first trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, this review offers insights into the main challenges that must be addressed imminently to ensure progress from research to clinical applications.

Automated summary

Human chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone, estrogen and its metabolites, as well as relaxin, are crucial for fetal development in the first trimester and hormone imbalances during this period are directly linked to miscarriages. Conventional centralized analytical tools for hormone monitoring are limited in their ability to provide rapid responses. Electrochemical sensing, with its quick response, user-friendliness, low costs, and potential for point-of-care use, offers an ideal solution for hormone detection. This review provides an extensive overview of the advances in electrochemical detection of hormones related to the first trimester of pregnancy and highlights the challenges that need to be addressed for clinical applications.