Recent trends in electrochemical DNA biosensor technology

Abstract

Recent trends and challenges in the electrochemical methods for the detection of DNA hybridization are reviewed. Electrochemistry has superior properties over the other existing measurement systems, because electrochemical biosensors can provide rapid, simple and low-cost on-field detection. Electrochemical measurement protocols are also suitable for mass fabrication of miniaturized devices. Electrochemical detection of hybridization is mainly based on the differences in the electrochemical behaviour of the labels towards the hybridization reaction on the electrode surface or in the solution. Basic criteria for electrochemical DNA biosensor technology, and already commercialized products, are also introduced. Future prospects towards PCR-free DNA chips are discussed.