A Flexible and Transparent PtNP/SWCNT/PET Electrochemical Sensor for Nonenzymatic Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide Released from Living Cells with Real-Time Monitoring Capability

We developed a transparent and flexible electrochemical sensor using a platform based on a network of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for the non-enzymatic detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) released from living cells. We decorated the SWCNT network on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) using a potentiodynamic method. The PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor synergized the advantages of a flexible PET substrate, a conducting SWCNT network, and a catalytic PtNP and demonstrated good biocompatibility and flexibility, enabling cell adhesion. The PtNP/SWCNT/PET-based sensor demonstrated enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards H2O2, as well as excellent selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. The sensor exhibited a wide dynamic range of 500 nM to 1 M, with a low detection limit of 228 nM. Furthermore, the PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor remained operationally stable, even after bending at various angles (15 & DEG;, 30 & DEG;, 60 & DEG;, and 90 & DEG;), with no noticeable loss of current signal. These outstanding characteristics enabled the PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor to be practically applied for the direct culture of HeLa cells and the real-time monitoring of H2O2 release by the HeLa cells under drug stimulation.

Automated summary

Researchers developed a transparent and flexible electrochemical sensor for the non-enzymatic detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) released from living cells. The sensor utilized a platform based on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) decorated with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate. The PtNP/SWCNT/PET sensor exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity, good selectivity, stability, and reproducibility, with a wide dynamic range and low detection limit.