Electrochemical immunosensor with N-doped graphene-modified electrode for label-free detection of the breast cancer biomarker CA 15-3

Highly sensitive and label-free detection of the biomarker carbohydrate antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) remains a challenge in the diagnosis of breast cancer. Here, a novel electrochemical immunosensor capable of sensitive and label-free detection of CA 15-3 is reported. This unique immunosensor, equipped with a highly conductive graphene (i.e., N-doped graphene sheets)-modified electrode, exhibited significantly increased electron transfer and high sensitivity toward CA 15-3. This novel immunosensor, with a low detection limit of 0.012 U/mL, worked well over a broad linear range of 0.1–20 U/mL. Unlike conventional immunosensors, which usually involve complicated label processing and time-consuming separations, the use of highly conductive graphene avoids the need for labels and is simple in nature. The strategy developed for this immunosensor provides a promising approach for clinical research and diagnostic applications.

► A novel electrochemical immunosensor capable of sensitive and label-free detection of CA 15-3 is developed.
► This immunosensor, configured with highly conductive graphene-modified electrode, dispensed with the need for AuNPs to label the signaling antibody.
► This immunosensor had a low detection limit of 0.012 U/mL and worked well over a linear range of 0.1–20 U/mL.
► The strategy developed for the immunosensor provides a promising approach for clinical research and diagnostic applications.