技术文章

Signal Transduction Mechanism of Graphene Biosensors: From Molecular Recognition to Electrical/Optical Signal Readout and Materials Selection

1. The Key Challenge in Bioanalysis: How Molecular Recognition Signals Can Be Read Out Reliably

 

1.1 Recognition of a Target Molecule Does Not Automatically Produce a Detection Result

In bioanalysis, confirming the presence of a target molecule is only one part of the detection process. The more critical question is: when an antigen binds to an antibody, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) undergoes hybridization, an enzymatic reaction produces a detectable product, or a protein biomarker is captured, how can these molecular recognition processes be converted into signals that can be read by an instrument?

 

The core function of a biosensor is to convert the subtle changes caused by target-molecule binding or reaction events into stable, quantifiable electrical or optical signals. A typical biosensor usually consists of three components:

 

Component

Main Function

Common Forms

Biorecognition layer

Selectively binds the target molecule

Antibodies, enzymes, DNA probes, aptamers

Signal transduction layer

Converts recognition events into measurable signals

Graphene, gold electrodes, carbon materials, semiconductor materials

Signal readout layer

Outputs the detection result

Current, voltage, resistance, conductance, fluorescence signal

 

The value of graphene in biosensors is mainly reflected in the signal transduction step. It does not replace antibodies, enzymes, or nucleic acid probes in performing specific recognition. Instead, it helps convert the changes caused by target-molecule binding or reactions more effectively into changes in current, conductance, impedance, or fluorescence signals.

 

1.2 Graphene Improves the Signal Transduction Efficiency Between the Recognition Layer and the Readout Layer

In many bioanalytical systems, the challenge is not only to recognize or capture the target molecule, but also to reliably read out the weak signal generated after the target molecule is captured. Common challenges include:

① Low target-molecule concentration, resulting in weak signal changes caused by target binding or reactions;

② Insufficient electron transfer efficiency between biomolecules and electrodes;

③ A limited number of recognition molecules that can be immobilized on the surface of an electrode or device;

④ The presence of multiple interfering substances in real samples such as blood, saliva, sweat, and urine;

⑤ The need for detection devices to be miniaturized, fast in response, and suitable for continuous monitoring or on-site testing.

 

Graphene has attracted attention because it can serve as a transduction material between the biorecognition layer and the signal readout layer, helping convert changes caused by target binding, recognition, or reactions into detectable signals more efficiently.

 

2. Why Graphene Can Improve Signal Transduction

 
2.1 High Specific Surface Area Increases the Immobilization Capacity for Recognition Molecules

Graphene is a two-dimensional carbon material with a relatively high specific surface area. For biosensors, this means that the material surface can provide more contact sites for immobilizing enzymes, antibodies, DNA probes, or aptamers. When the target-molecule concentration is low, the sensor needs to maximize the opportunity for target molecules to interact with recognition molecules. A higher effective surface area helps increase the loading capacity of recognition molecules, thereby improving the detection response.

 

However, a high specific surface area does not directly mean high selectivity. Whether a sensor can accurately recognize glucose, dopamine, uric acid, proteins, or nucleic acids mainly depends on the recognition elements immobilized on the surface. The role of graphene is to improve signal transmission and readout efficiency after the recognition event occurs.

 

2.2 Good Electron Transfer Capability Helps Enhance Electrochemical Response

In electrochemical biosensors, detection signals usually originate from redox reactions, enzymatic reaction products, or changes in surface charge at the electrode. In this context, whether the electrons generated by the reaction can be rapidly transferred to the electrode directly affects the response speed and signal intensity.

 

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) usually has better electrical conductivity than graphene oxide (GO) and is commonly used for electrochemical electrode modification. rGO can increase the effective reaction area of the electrode and improve the electron transfer process, making current changes caused by target molecules or reaction products easier to detect.

 

However, the performance of rGO is not fixed. Its conductivity, surface defects, residual functional groups, and dispersion state are affected by the degree of reduction, preparation method, and post-treatment process. For practical detection, material consistency is just as important as electrochemical response intensity.

 

2.3 Atomic-Scale Thickness Makes Graphene Sensitive to Surface Charge Changes

The detection logic of graphene field-effect transistor (GFET) sensors is different from that of traditional electrochemical sensors. In a GFET, graphene usually serves as the conductive channel. When a target molecule binds to the graphene surface or changes the local charge environment near graphene, the carrier concentration in the graphene channel may change, thereby causing changes in conductance or current.

 

The value of this detection mode lies in the fact that the target molecule does not necessarily need to produce color, fluorescence, or redox products. Under appropriate ionic strength, surface modification, and device structure, local charge changes caused by target binding may be read out by the GFET. This is also an important reason why GFETs are used for label-free detection. Label-free detection refers to detection that does not rely on fluorescent dyes, enzyme labels, or radioactive labels, but instead directly generates a detection signal through the interaction between the target molecule and the sensing surface.

 

2.4 Surface Modifiability Determines Whether Graphene Can Connect with Biorecognition Molecules

For graphene materials to be used in bioanalysis, conductivity and high specific surface area alone are not sufficient. Recognition molecules must be stably immobilized on the material surface while maintaining their activity during detection. GO contains oxygen-containing functional groups such as hydroxyl, carboxyl, and epoxy groups on its surface, making it relatively easy to link or adsorb proteins, DNA, aptamers, polymers, and other molecules. Therefore, GO is commonly used for biomolecule immobilization and optical detection.

 

While rGO partially restores conductivity, it also retains some defects and functional groups, making it more suitable for electrochemical electrode modification. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) graphene is more suitable for preparing continuous thin films and is used in transistor devices, flexible electronic devices, and bioelectronic interfaces.

 

3. Functional Differences Among GO, rGO, and CVD Graphene

 

3.1 GO: Suitable for Constructing Modifiable Biorecognition Interfaces

The advantages of GO lie in its abundant oxygen-containing functional groups, good dispersibility, and ease of chemical modification. GO is commonly used in the following detection designs:

① DNA probe immobilization;

② Aptamer-based detection;

③ Protein adsorption or coupling;

④ Fluorescence quenching/fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) detection;

⑤ Optical signal modulation.

 

In optical biosensors, GO is often used to adsorb fluorescently labeled single-stranded DNA or aptamers and to construct “on/off” detection systems based on its fluorescence quenching ability. When the target molecule is present, the conformation or adsorption state of the probe changes, causing the fluorescence signal to change accordingly and enabling target recognition.

 

3.2 rGO: Suitable for Enhancing Electrochemical Signals

After reduction treatment, rGO usually has higher conductivity than GO. Although defects may still exist in its structure, these defects and residual functional groups can also provide sites for electrode modification. In electrochemical biosensors, the main roles of rGO include:

 

Role

Effect on Detection

Increasing the effective electrode area

Increases the loading capacity of recognition molecules and the number of reaction sites

Improving electron transfer

Enhances current response and shortens response time

Providing sites for composite modification

Facilitates combination with enzymes, metal nanoparticles, and polymers

Improving interfacial charge transfer in certain systems

Helps improve detection sensitivity

 

rGO is commonly used in electrochemical detection studies involving glucose, dopamine, uric acid, ascorbic acid, DNA, and other targets. The detection performance of rGO is closely related to the material preparation process. The degree of oxidation, degree of reduction, lateral size, number of layers, defect density, and dispersion state all affect the response intensity and reproducibility of the sensor.

 

3.3 CVD Graphene: Suitable for Device-Based Electrical Detection

The CVD method can be used to prepare continuous graphene films, making it more suitable for GFETs, flexible electronic devices, and bioelectronic interfaces. Compared with GO and rGO, the main characteristics of CVD graphene are:

① Good film continuity;

② Better compatibility with micro- and nano-device fabrication;

③ Single-layer or few-layer structures that are sensitive to surface charge changes;

④ Compatibility with flexible substrates for patch-type or miniaturized detection devices.

 

In GFETs, CVD graphene can serve as the conductive channel. After target binding, if the charge distribution near graphene is altered, the channel conductance may be affected, forming a readable signal. However, CVD graphene devices also face fabrication challenges. Film growth quality, grain boundaries, transfer residues, cracks, substrate contamination, and surface functionalization methods can all affect the final detection performance.

 

4. Two Main Types of Sensors: Electrochemical Sensors and GFET Sensors

 

4.1 rGO Electrochemical Biosensors: Suitable for Rapid, Low-Cost Detection

The basic logic of rGO electrochemical biosensors is that the target molecule or its reaction product generates electrochemical changes on the electrode surface. rGO increases the reaction interface and improves electron transfer, making changes in current or impedance easier to detect. This detection mode is suitable for analytes that can undergo electrochemical reactions or whose signals can be read out electrically through enzymatic reactions or redox probes.

 

Detection Target

Common Detection Method

Main Role of rGO

Glucose

Enzymatic reaction produces an electrochemical signal

Improves electron transfer and increases response intensity

Dopamine

Redox reaction

Enhances current response

Uric acid

Electrochemical oxidation reaction

Improves electrode interface response

DNA

Hybridization recognition or electrochemical-label readout

Provides an interface for probe immobilization and charge transfer

Proteins

Antibody or aptamer recognition

Enhances surface reactions and signal readout

 

The advantages of this type of sensor include fast detection, relatively simple equipment, and low cost, making it suitable for development toward portable detection devices. However, its scope of application depends on whether the target molecule can generate a measurable electrochemical signal. If the target molecule itself does not readily undergo electrochemical reactions, enzymes, nanomaterials, redox probes, or other signal-amplification designs usually need to be introduced. This increases system complexity and also makes stability and reproducibility more difficult to control.

 

4.2 GFET Biosensors: Suitable for Label-Free, Real-Time Electrical Detection

The basic logic of GFET biosensors is that after the target molecule binds to the graphene surface, it changes the local charge environment, thereby modulating the conductance of the graphene channel and forming a readable electrical signal. Compared with electrochemical sensors, GFETs do not necessarily rely on redox reactions of the target molecule, nor do they necessarily require fluorescent labeling. They are more suitable for label-free detection based on surface charge changes. The main value of GFETs lies in the following aspects:

 

Detection Requirement

Advantage of GFET

Rapid detection

Target binding can directly induce an electrical response

Label-free detection

Reduces the need for dyes, enzyme labels, or secondary antibody steps

Miniaturized devices

The transistor structure is suitable for integrated fabrication

Flexible detection

CVD graphene can be combined with flexible substrates

Continuous readout

Conductance changes can be monitored in real time

 

The sensitivity of GFETs comes from the two-dimensional structure of graphene. Single-layer or few-layer graphene has a highly exposed surface, and surface adsorption or charge perturbation can directly affect its electrical properties.

 

The practical detection performance of GFETs is limited by multiple factors. Non-specific adsorption in complex samples, changes in ionic strength, pH fluctuations, Debye screening effects, device noise, and signal drift can all affect result interpretation. Therefore, the key issue for GFETs is not whether a response can be generated, but whether the response mainly originates from target-molecule binding rather than background interference or device drift.

 

5. What Still Needs to Be Solved When Moving from Laboratory Results to Practical Detection

 

5.1 Selectivity Still Depends on Biorecognition Molecules

Graphene is sensitive to surface changes, which helps improve detection response. However, this also means that it may respond to non-target molecule adsorption, changes in ion concentration, or pH fluctuations.

 

Therefore, graphene sensors need reliable recognition elements to ensure selectivity, including enzymes, antibodies, aptamers, DNA probes, molecularly imprinted polymers, and specific receptor proteins. If the recognition layer has insufficient selectivity, the high sensitivity of graphene may lead to higher background noise rather than more accurate detection results.

 

5.2 Real Samples Significantly Increase Detection Difficulty

Buffer systems have simple compositions and controllable target concentrations, making it easier to obtain ideal detection results. However, real samples contain large numbers of interfering components, and sensors must operate in much more complex chemical and biological environments.

 

Sample Type

Main Challenge

Blood

High protein content; prone to non-specific adsorption

Saliva

Composition varies significantly; target concentration may be low

Sweat

Ionic strength, pH, and secretion rate vary markedly

Urine

Complex metabolites and large individual differences

Interstitial fluid

Sampling methods and long-term stability requirements are demanding

 

If a graphene sensor performs well only in buffer solution, this is not sufficient to demonstrate that it is suitable for practical detection. Selectivity, interference resistance, reproducibility, and stability in real samples are important criteria for evaluating its application value.

 

5.3 Material and Device Consistency Determines Whether Results Are Reliable

The performance of GO, rGO, and CVD graphene is affected by preparation processes. For GO and rGO, the degree of oxidation, degree of reduction, lateral size distribution, number of layers, defect density, and dispersion state all affect electrode surface reactions and signal output. For CVD graphene, growth quality, transfer process, cracks, residues, and substrate contamination can also affect GFET device performance.

 

For research validation, good results may be obtained with a single batch of material. For practical detection, however, it is more important that different batches of materials and devices maintain consistent responses. The reliability of graphene sensors depends not only on material properties, but also on preparation processes, surface functionalization methods, and quality control capability.

 

6. How to Evaluate Whether a Graphene Sensor Design Is Reliable

 

When evaluating graphene biosensors, six key questions should be considered.

 

Evaluation Question

What to Focus On

1. What is the detection target?

Small molecules, proteins, nucleic acids, ions, or cellular signals correspond to different mechanisms

2. What is the recognition element?

Enzymes, antibodies, aptamers, DNA probes, or other recognition materials

3. How is the signal generated?

Current, conductance, impedance, fluorescence, or other measurable changes

4. What role does graphene play?

Immobilizing recognition molecules, enhancing electrode response, or serving as a transistor channel

5. Which type of graphene material is used?

GO, rGO, and CVD graphene correspond to different functions

6. Are the validation conditions close to practical applications?

Whether real samples are used, and whether interference resistance, reproducibility, and stability are evaluated

 

Graphene sensors with application potential are usually designed around specific detection targets, real-sample environments, recognition-element stability, and readout mechanisms. Only in this way can the material advantages of graphene be truly translated into reliable detection capability.

 

7. Classification Tables of Representative Chemicals Related to Graphene Biosensors

 

Table 1. Core Graphene Materials and Carbon-Based Conductive Materials

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Graphene field-effect transistor device

—

G475809

Graphene field-effect transistor chip

S10

Used for label-free electrical detection, surface charge response testing, and graphene field-effect sensor research

CVD graphene film

—

M485946

Monolayer graphene film

1 cm × 1 cm on SiO₂/Si substrate

Used for device-based electrical detection, surface functionalization, and graphene-channel sensing research

CVD graphene film

—

M466390

Monolayer graphene film

1 inch × 1 inch copper foil with PMMA coating

Used for graphene transfer, device fabrication, and thin-film electrical property studies

Graphene oxide material

—

G475662

Graphene oxide

pH-stable dispersion in 0.05 M HEPES buffer, pH 7.5

Used for recognition molecule immobilization, surface adsorption, and optical detection research under biological buffer conditions

Graphene oxide material

—

G466391

Graphene oxide

2 mg/mL, dispersed in H₂O

Used for electrode coating, nucleic acid probe adsorption, aptamer immobilization, and construction of biointerfaces

Functionalized graphene oxide

—

G466384

Graphene oxide, amine-functionalized

1 mg/mL, dispersed in H₂O

Used for biomolecule coupling, amino-interface modification, and construction of recognition layers

Functionalized graphene

7782-42-5

G293467

Aminated graphene, nanosmall size

Diameter: 100–200 nm; single-layer ratio: >99%; amine ratio: 4.0 wt%

Used for coupling antibodies, enzymes, and nucleic acid probes, and for constructing high-specific-surface-area recognition interfaces

Functionalized graphene

7782-42-5

G196556

Carboxylated graphene, nanosmall size

Diameter: 50–200 nm; single-layer ratio: >98%; carboxyl ratio: 8.0 wt%

Used for carbodiimide coupling, protein immobilization, nucleic acid probe conjugation, and electrode interface modification

Functionalized graphene

7782-42-5

G196553

Hydroxylated graphene, nanosmall size

Diameter: 50–150 nm; single-layer ratio: >98%; hydroxyl ratio: 12 wt%

Used for hydrophilicity regulation, composite-film construction, and sensing-interface modification

Functionalized graphene

7782-42-5

G196555

Thiolated graphene

Single-layer ratio: >80%; thiol ratio: 4.0 wt%

Used for binding to metal surfaces, gold electrode modification, and construction of nanogold composite sensing interfaces

Reduced graphene oxide material

—

R487602

Reduced graphene oxide

Chemically reduced, single-layer, lateral size 1–5 μm

Used for electrochemical electrode modification, electron-transfer enhancement, and current-response studies

Reduced graphene oxide material

—

R485644

Reduced graphene oxide

10 mg/mL, dispersed in H₂O

Used for electrode drop-casting, composite material preparation, and electrochemical biosensor modification

High-purity graphene material

7782-42-5

S491698

High-purity graphene

Single-layer ratio >99.8%; thickness 0.8–1.2 nm; diameter 0.8–3 μm

Used for fundamental graphene material research, conductive-interface construction, and control experiments for sensing materials

Graphene quantum dot material

—

G196611

Graphene quantum dots

1 mg/mL; lateral size 3–6 nm

Used for fluorescence detection, optical signal readout, and construction of nanoprobe systems

Carbon-based conductive enhancement material

308068-56-6

C434648

Single-walled carbon nanotubes

≥95% (≥99% as carbon nanotubes), average diameter 0.84 nm

Used for conductive-network enhancement, composite electrode construction, and electrochemical response improvement

Carbon-based conductive enhancement material

308068-56-6

C434645

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes

≥90% carbon basis, D × L 110–170 nm × 5–9 μm

Used for composite electrodes, conductive frameworks, and mechanical stability studies of sensing materials

 

Table 2. Surface Coupling and Interfacial Functionalization Reagents

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Crosslinking immobilization reagent

111-30-8

G105908

Glutaraldehyde (50%)

Photographic grade, 50% in H₂O

Used for crosslinking immobilization between aminated surfaces and enzymes, antibodies, or proteins

Non-covalent graphene modification reagent

129-00-0

R109055

Pyrene

Sublimed grade, ≥99%

Used for studies of π–π interactions on graphene surfaces and adsorption modification with aromatic molecules

Metal nanomaterial precursor

16961-25-4

G141105

Chloroauric acid trihydrate

≥99.9% metals basis

Used for preparation of gold nanoparticles, gold-modified electrodes, and thiol-interface construction

Silanization reagent

919-30-2

A107147

3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)

≥99%

Used for amino-functionalization of glass, silica, and oxide surfaces, and for immobilization of recognition molecules

Carboxyl activation reagent

25952-53-8

E106172

1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride

≥98%

Used for amide-bond coupling between carboxyl and amino groups, supporting immobilization of proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acid probes

Non-covalent graphene linker

3443-45-6

P106902

1-Pyrenebutyric acid

≥98%

Used for π–π adsorption on graphene surfaces and subsequent carboxyl-based coupling modification

Active ester coupling reagent

6066-82-6

H109330

N-Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS)

≥98%

Used together with carbodiimide for carboxyl activation, improving coupling efficiency of proteins and probes

Aqueous active ester coupling reagent

106627-54-7

H109337

N-Hydroxysulfosuccinimide sodium salt (Sulfo-NHS)

≥98%

Used for aqueous carboxyl activation and biomolecule coupling in hydrophilic systems

Epoxy silane modification reagent

2530-83-8

G107576

3-Glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane

≥97%

Used to introduce epoxy groups, supporting immobilization of amino-containing proteins, enzymes, and probes

Thiol silane modification reagent

4420-74-0

M100619

(3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane

≥95%

Used to introduce thiol interfaces, supporting binding to metal surfaces and gold electrode modification

Non-covalent graphene linker

114932-60-4

N134794

1-Pyrenebutyric acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester

≥95%

Used for non-covalent adsorption on graphene surfaces and coupling of proteins, antibodies, and aptamers

 

Table 3. Materials for Polymer Immobilization, Dispersion Stabilization, and Anti-Non-Specific Adsorption

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Bio-polymer immobilization material

9012-76-4

C105802

Chitosan

Medium viscosity, 200–400 mPa·s

Used for enzyme immobilization, film formation, electrode surface modification, and construction of biocompatible interfaces

Surfactant

9005-64-5

T104863

Tween 20 (TWEEN® 20)

Viscous liquid

Used for washing, reducing non-specific adsorption, and background control in immunosensing experiments

Film-forming polymer

9002-89-5

P119362

Mowiol® PVA-124 polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)

Viscosity: 54–66 mPa·s

Used for flexible films, immobilization layers, composite coatings, and electrode protective layers

Hydrophilic polymer

25322-68-3

P615493

Polyethylene oxide

Viscosity 65–115 cps

Used for hydrophilic interface regulation, dispersion stabilization, and anti-adsorption studies of biointerfaces

Amphiphilic polymer

9003-11-6

K434429

Kolliphor® P 407

Oxyethylene content 71.5–74.9%

Used for nanomaterial dispersion, surface stabilization, and interface regulation in bioanalytical systems

Blocking protein

9048-46-8

B754985

Bovine serum albumin (BSA)

Sterile-filtered, for cell culture, low endotoxin, 10% in DPBS, fatty acid free

Used for sensor surface blocking, reducing non-specific adsorption, and controlling background in immunoassays

Dispersion-stabilizing polymer

9003-39-8

P657448

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)

Animal-free, low endotoxin, for cell culture, K30

Used for nanomaterial dispersion, particle stabilization, and preparation of composite sensing materials

Nonionic surfactant

9002-93-1

T1506720

Triton™ X-100

Biochemical reagent, peroxide value ≤7 meq/kg

Used for surface cleaning, membrane treatment, sample processing, and regulation of non-specific adsorption

Cationic polymer

9002-98-6

P434400

Branched polyethyleneimine (PEI)

Average Mw ~25,000 by LS; average Mn ~10,000 by GPC; branched

Used to introduce amino groups, immobilize nucleic acids, regulate surface charge, and enhance material dispersion

Anionic polyelectrolyte

25704-18-1

P432468

Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS)

Average Mw ~1,000,000, powder

Used for layer-by-layer assembly, surface charge regulation, and construction of conductive composite interfaces

Electrode membrane material

31175-20-9

N432605

Nafion™ perfluorinated membrane

Thickness 0.002 inch

Used for electrode protective membranes, ion-conducting layers, and anti-interference interfaces in electrochemical sensing

Blocking protein

9000-71-9

C110500

Casein

Industrial grade

Used for blocking in immunoassays, reducing non-specific binding, and controlling background signals

Cationic polyelectrolyte

26062-79-3

P109720

Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC)

Mw 200,000–350,000; 20 wt% in water; 250–500 cP at 25 °C

Used for charged-layer assembly, construction of graphene composite films, and surface charge regulation

 

Table 4. Biorecognition Reagents, Enzymes, and Model Analytes

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Enzyme-labeled recognition reagent

9003-99-0

np231264

Biotinylated horseradish peroxidase

Carrier-free, azide-free, EnzymoPure™, 1.0 mg/mL

Used for enzyme-label signal amplification, biotin-affinity systems, and immunosensing detection

Model analyte

50-99-7

D432810

D-(+)-Glucose

Anhydrous grade, PharmPure™, USP, BP, European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.), ACS

Used for glucose sensor performance evaluation, enzymatic reaction models, and electrochemical detection

Model analyte

57-88-5

C657147

Cholesterol

Animal-free, low endotoxin, for cell culture, ≥99%

Used for cholesterol oxidase sensing systems and metabolic biomarker detection studies

Enzymatic reaction product/oxidation substrate

7722-84-1

H755825

Hydrogen peroxide solution

Suitable for microbiology, 3%

Used for oxidase sensor response testing and electrochemical detection of peroxides

Biorecognition enzyme

9028-76-6

C774084

Recombinant cholesterol oxidase (CHO)

Bioactive, recombinant, ActiBioPure™, high performance, EnzymoPure™, ≥90% by SDS-PAGE, ≥8 U/mg enzyme powder

Used for cholesterol detection, oxidase-based electrochemical biosensors, and metabolite analysis

Biorecognition enzyme

9001-37-0

G774044

Recombinant glucose oxidase (GOD)

Bioactive, recombinant, ActiBioPure™, high performance, EnzymoPure™, ≥90% by SDS-PAGE, ≥150 U/mg enzyme powder; ≥300 U/mg protein

Used for glucose electrochemical biosensors and oxidase immobilization studies

Biorecognition enzyme

9002-12-4

R1506897

Urate oxidase (UAO)

Bioactive, recombinant, ActiBioPure™, high performance, EnzymoPure™, ≥80% by SDS-PAGE, expressed in E. coli, 8–12 U/mg enzyme powder

Used for uric acid detection, electrochemical enzyme sensors, and metabolite analysis

Biorecognition enzyme

9028-72-2

L774072

Recombinant lactate oxidase (LOX)

Bioactive, recombinant, ActiBioPure™, high performance, EnzymoPure™, ≥100 U/mg enzyme powder; ≥250 U/mg protein

Used for lactate detection, sweat sensing, and oxidase-based electrochemical detection systems

Model analyte/interferent

103-90-2

A105807

Acetaminophen

Chemically pure (CP), ≥98% by HPLC

Used for small-molecule electrochemical detection, pharmaceutical analysis, and evaluation of interferent response

Model analyte/interferent

50-81-7

L432790

L-Ascorbic acid

UltraBio™, ultrapure grade, ≥99.5% (RT)

Used for interference experiments in electrochemical sensors, antioxidant small-molecule detection, and selectivity evaluation

Model analyte

79-33-4

S485917

(S)-Lactic acid

PharmPure™, BP, European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.)

Used for lactate sensors, sweat metabolite detection, and oxidase reaction systems

Affinity immobilization reagent

58-85-5

B476742

Biotin

PharmPure™, USP

Used for biotin–streptavidin immobilization systems and probe labeling

Model analyte

62-31-7

D103111

Dopamine hydrochloride

Moligand™, ≥98%

Used for dopamine electrochemical detection, neurotransmitter model analysis, and selectivity evaluation

Model analyte

69-93-2

U119740

Uric acid certified reference material

Moligand™, ≥99.8%

Used for uric acid sensor calibration, standard curve establishment, and metabolite detection

Model analyte

51-61-6

A303863

Dopamine

Moligand™, ≥98%

Used for neurotransmitter electrochemical detection and studies of graphene electrode response

Affinity immobilization reagent

9013-20-1

S103034

Streptavidin

From Streptomyces avidinii, ≥12 U/mg protein

Used for immobilization of biotinylated antibodies, enzymes, and nucleic acid probes, and for construction of recognition layers

 

Table 5. Electrochemical Probes, Mediators, and Electrode Auxiliary Materials

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Reference electrode-related material

7783-90-6

S434081

Silver chloride

Suitable for analysis, guaranteed reagent, ≥99%

Used for preparation of silver/silver chloride reference electrodes and electrochemical testing systems

Electrochemical mediator

14038-43-8

P113746

Prussian blue

Biological stain

Used for hydrogen peroxide detection, electrode modification, and signal transduction in enzyme sensors

Redox probe

14459-95-1

P432115

Potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) trihydrate

European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.), suitable for analysis, ACS, guaranteed reagent

Used for cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and evaluation of electron transfer at electrode interfaces

Redox probe

13746-66-2

P485844

Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III)

European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.), suitable for analysis, ACS, guaranteed reagent

Used for electrode performance testing, charge-transfer resistance analysis, and evaluation of interfacial modification

Metal electrode material precursor

7761-88-8

S433976

Silver nitrate (explosive precursor)

European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.), suitable for analysis, ACS, guaranteed reagent

Used for silver nanomaterial preparation, silver-based electrode modification, and research on electrochemical detection materials

Transparent conductive material

50926-11-9

I432805

Indium tin oxide

Nanopowder, particle size <50 nm

Used for transparent conductive electrodes, photoelectrochemical detection, and graphene composite electrodes

Electrochemical dye/mediator

61-73-4

M196501

Methylene blue

1%

Used for nucleic acid electrochemical detection, redox signal labeling, and electrode response studies

Redox mediator

102-54-5

F108390

Ferrocene

≥99%

Used for electrochemical labeling, electron-transfer mediation, and sensor signal construction

Electrochemical dye/mediator

92-31-9

T492282

Toluidine Blue O

—

Used for electrochemical signal labeling, nucleic acid detection, and redox response studies

 

Table 6. Buffer Salts, Supporting Electrolytes, and Sample Processing Reagents

 

Category

CAS No.

Aladdin Cat. No.

Name

Specification or Purity

Product Features and Applications

Phosphate buffer component

7778-77-0

P434012

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate

For analysis, ≤0.005% Na, guaranteed reagent, ACS, ISO, Reag. Ph.Eur.

Used for phosphate buffer preparation, ionic strength control, and electrochemical detection systems

Phosphate buffer component

7558-79-4

D774741

Disodium hydrogen phosphate

Anhydrous grade, PharmPure™, USP, JP, BP, European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur.)

Used for phosphate buffer preparation, biomolecule stabilization, and sensor testing systems

Supporting electrolyte

7647-14-5

S433744

Sodium chloride

Anhydrous grade, high-purity, reagent grade, ≥99%

Used for ionic strength adjustment, buffer preparation, and simulation of physiological saline environments

Supporting electrolyte

7447-40-7

P433494

Potassium chloride

Anhydrous grade, ACS, ≥99%

Used as an electrochemical supporting electrolyte, in reference electrode systems, and for ionic environment adjustment

Biological buffer

7365-45-9

H774625

N-2-Hydroxyethylpiperazine-N′-2-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES)

Animal-free, for cell culture, ≥99.5%, ultra-low endotoxin

Used for biological detection buffer systems, cell-related sensing experiments, and pH-stable environments

Metal ion chelator

6381-92-6

E118594

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt dihydrate

HPLC grade, ≥99%

Used for metal ion chelation, sample processing, and background interference control

Biological buffer

77-86-1

T110601

Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (Tris base)

Molecular biology grade, ≥99.9% (T)

Used in buffer systems for nucleic acid, protein, and enzyme sensing experiments

Carboxyl coupling buffer

4432-31-9

M108951

2-(N-Morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES)

Molecular biology grade, ≥99.5% (T)

Used as a buffer for carbodiimide coupling reactions and carboxyl activation experiments

 

Note: The products listed above are representative Aladdin products related to scientific research and formulation studies. For more product specifications, grades, and COA information, please search by “product name/CAS/catalog number” on the Aladdin official website.

 

References

 

[1] Centeno A., Zurutuza Elorza A. Graphene in Biotechnology. Material Matters™, 2013, 8.1.

 

[2] Pumera M. Graphene in biosensing. Materials Today, 2011, 14(7–8): 308–315.

 

[3] Justino C. I. L., Gomes A. R., Freitas A. C., Duarte A. C., Rocha-Santos T. A. P. Graphene based sensors and biosensors. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 2017, 91: 53–66.

 

[4] Morales-Narváez E., Merkoçi A. Graphene oxide as an optical biosensing platform. Advanced Materials, 2012, 24(25): 3298–3308.

 

[5] Wang Y., Li Z., Wang J., Li J., Lin Y. Graphene and graphene oxide: Biofunctionalization and applications in biotechnology. Trends in Biotechnology, 2011, 29(5): 205–212.

 

[6] Fu W., Jiang L., van Geest E. P., Lima L. M. C., Schneider G. F. Sensing at the surface of graphene field-effect transistors. Advanced Materials, 2017, 29(6): 1603610.

 

[7] Novodchuk I., Bajcsy M., Yavuz M. Graphene-based field effect transistor biosensors for breast cancer detection: A review on biosensing strategies. Carbon, 2021, 172: 431–453.

 

[8] Nagpal D., Singh A., Link J., Mehta A. S., Kumar A., Budhraja V. Recent Advances in Graphene-Based Field-Effect Transistor Biosensors for Disease Biomarker Detection and Clinical Prospects. Biosensors, 2026, 16(4): 190. DOI: 10.3390/bios16040190.

 

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How to Prepare Graphene Quantum Dots?

 

Panorama Guide to Graphene Materials: Bulk Graphene × GO/rGO Precursors × Functionalization & Doping × Dispersions/Inks and Composite Devices (with a Selection Roadmap)

 

From Planar Patterns to Self-Supporting Structures: The 3D Printing Formation Logic of High-Content Graphene Composite Inks

 

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目录: 技术文章
探索主题: Graphene Biosensor

Da — 若无特别说明,分子量单位默认为道尔顿。   Mw — 重均分子量。   Mn — 数均分子量。

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引用本文

阿拉丁科学.《Signal Transduction Mechanism of Graphene Biosensors: From Molecular Recognition to Electrical/Optical Signal Readout and Materials Selection》. 阿拉丁知识库,更新于 2026年7月1日。 https://www.aladdin-e.com/zh_cn/faqs/signal-transduction-mechanism-of-graphene-biosensors-en.html
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