Enhanced peroxidase-like properties of Au@Pt DNs/NG/Cu2+ and application of sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor for highly sensitive detection of CEA

Effective treatment of cancer depends upon the early detection of the tumor marker. Here, we report on the development of a new immunosensor for early detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Cubic Au@Pt dendritic nanomaterials functionalized nitrogen-doped graphene loaded with copper ion (Au@Pt DNs/NG/Cu2+) with enhanced peroxidase-like properties was synthesized as labels to effectively capture and immobilize secondary anti-CEA. The Au@Pt DNs with more active surface area could efficiently enhance electrocatalysis for reduction of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Meanwhile, with good conductivity and large specific surface area, NG can immobilize a large amount of Au@Pt DNs. Furthermore, after adsorbed Cu2+ can further promote the redox of H2O2 and amplify the signal of the immunosensor. For the immobilization of primary antibodies, Au nanoparticles functionalized polydopamine (Au@PDA) were used as transducing materials to modify glassy carbon electrodes and enhance the electron transfer efficiently. Under optimal conditions, the immunosensor exhibited a satisfactory response to CEA with a limit detection of 0.167 pg/mL and linear detection range from 0.5 pg/mL to 50 ng/mL. Based on the high sensitivity and specificity of the immunosensor, we propose this multiple amplified biosensor for early detection of CEA.