Electrochemical biosensors: a nexus for precision medicine

Drug Discov Today. 2021 Jan;26(1):69-79. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.10.021. Epub 2020 Oct 31.

Abstract

Precision medicine is a field with huge potential for improving a patient's quality of life, wherein therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) can provide actionable insights. More importantly, incorrect drug dose is a common contributor to medical errors. However, current TDM practice is time-consuming and expensive, and requires specialised technicians. One solution is to use electrochemical biosensors (ECBs), which are inexpensive, portable, and highly sensitive. In this review, we explore the potential for ECBs as a technology for on-demand drug monitoring, including microneedles, continuous monitoring, synthetic biorecognition elements, and multi-material electrodes. We also highlight emerging strategies to achieve continuous drug monitoring, and conclude by appraising recent developments and providing an outlook for the field.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques*
  • Drug Monitoring* / methods
  • Drug Monitoring* / trends
  • Electrochemical Techniques* / instrumentation
  • Electrochemical Techniques* / methods
  • Humans
  • Medication Therapy Management / trends
  • Precision Medicine*