Review-recent advances of micro/nano-motor-facilitated electrochemical sensor development

Abstract

Micro/-nano motors (MNMs) are deployed to perform cutting edge research and development activities that include biomedical engineering, environment monitoring, energy harvesting and more. MNMs progressively strives for miniaturization of MNMs, mightier self-propulsion, precision of motion, and smarter motion control. The last decade published several reports on biosensing applications of MNMs targeting enhanced specificity, selectivity. Among MNM mediated biosensors, the electrochemical biosensor is the most important stake holder. Motion of MNMs enable active transport, augmented reaction kinetics, and better selectivity causing smarter biosensing. This review article explores the most advanced development of electrochemical biosensing deploying MNMs that took place in recent past. Briefly, this article covers chronological development in the field of MNM mediated electrochemical biosensing with emphasis on, conventional working electrode based sensing, DNA walker modificaitons, MNM based real time electrochemical signal monitoring, and scope of MNM mediated electrochemical sensing for intracellular monitoring or drug delivery. Conclusively, the review considers the most recent development in the field of MNM mediated electrochemical sensing that includes both in vitro and in vivo electrochemical biosensing. Additionally, we discuss use of electorchemical redox reactions for imparting motion to the MNMs in physiological fluids for intracellular manipulation, targeted drug delivery, and more.