Highly sensitive detection of cancer DNA using a CRISPR-based electrochemical sensor

The detection limit of the developed SPCE biosensor for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is as low as 4.2 fM.

• A novel biosensor combines CRISPR/Cas12a with magnetic beads for rapid ctDNA detection.
• The biosensor activates the collision activity of silver nanoparticles in the presence of target ctDNA.
• ctDNA quantification is achieved by measuring the collision frequency of silver nanoparticles.
• The linear detection range of the biosensor spans from 10 fM to 1 nM.
• The use of magnetic beads enhances the biosensor's ability to detect ctDNA in complex samples.

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