One-step impedimetric NT-proBNP aptasensor targeting cardiac insufficiency in artificial saliva

Currently, sensitive and accurate approaches for diagnosis, rapid assessment, and cardiac biomarker monitoring in patients with heart failure are needed. In this context, the advantages of aptamers over traditional antibodies have been employed to fabricate a single-step impedimetric N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)-modified gold microelectrode array. The development of an electrochemical aptasensing platform was based on the coimmobilization of alkanethiol self-assembled monolayers and amine-terminated aptamer that specifically recognized cardiac NT-proBNP protein resulting in charge electron transfer. Electroimpedimetric signals of the sensor were observed to be linear to the NT-proBNP concentrations in the range of 5.0 x 10-3 to 1.0 pg mL-1 (R2 = 0.9624), while achieving a low detection limit of 5.0 x 10-3 pg mL-1. Clinically relevant detection levels for NT-proBNP were achieved in a simple, rapid, and label-free measurement using artificial saliva, which was highlighted to be specific, regenerative, and selective over potential interferers occurring during the processes of cardiac insufficiency, Therefore, the novel NT-proBNP aptasensor is a promising point-of -care tool exhibiting safe, non-invasive, affordable, and non-prescription home use accessible to overcome the limitations associated with conventional ELISA and previous aptasensing.

Automated summary

Sensitive and accurate approaches for cardiac biomarker monitoring in heart failure patients are currently required. A novel aptasensor was developed based on the advantages of aptamers over traditional antibodies, utilizing a single-step impedimetric NT-proBNP-modified gold microelectrode array. The sensor exhibited linear electroimpedimetric signals to NT-proBNP concentrations in the range of 5.0 x 10-3 to 1.0 pg mL-1, with a low detection limit of 5.0 x 10-3 pg mL-1. Clinically relevant detection levels for NT-proBNP were achieved in a simple, rapid, and label-free measurement using artificial saliva, demonstrating its potential as a safe, non-invasive, affordable, and accessible point-of-care tool.