Synergistic single-atom catalysis enables ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of luteolin

The interfacial state of electrode materials critically governs catalytic analyte detection. This study introduces single-atom platinum (Pt) decorated tungsten trioxide (Pt-WO 3 ) nanomaterials for the ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of luteolin, a pharmacologically significant flavonoid. The atomic dispersion of Pt within the WO 3 lattice, achieved via oxygen vacancy anchoring, optimizes the interfacial state and catalytic performance, overcoming Pt nanoparticle agglomeration limitations. The optimized Pt-WO 3 modified electrode demonstrates exceptional performance with an ultra-low detection limit (0.13 nM), superior sensitivity (10.1 μA μM −1 ), and a broad linear range (0.0001–5.6 μM). Systematic mechanistic studies reveal a two-electron/double-proton reaction pathway for luteolin oxidation, with Pt single atoms synergistically accelerating interfacial electron transfer. The sensor exhibits outstanding selectivity, long-term stability, and reproducibility. Successful application in detecting luteolin in complex matrices (apple juice, lemon juice) validates its practical utility. This work highlights the significant potential of single-atom synergistic catalysis in advancing electrochemical sensor performance for pharmaceutical analysis and functional food quality control.