Impedimetric Interrogation to Reduce the Degradation of Electrochemical Aptamer-Based Biosensors

Electrochemical aptamer-based biosensors (E-ABs) are a detection platform that enables rapid and precise measurements of target concentrations directly in complex matrices and in the body. Their translation to solving “real-world” challenges is, in part, hampered by their instability. This has been partially explained by electrochemically induced sensor degradation. In response, we propose an impedimetric method that minimizes sensor degradation. This method relies on the application of a narrower potential window, in contrast to the widely used square wave voltammetry. We showcase the ability of the impedimetric method to mitigate degradation for three different E-ABs, leading to a stability improvement of up to 79%. We also explore its utility to gain insights into the degradation mechanisms.