Abstract

Miniaturized, pad-printed carbon electrodes (PPCEs) offer a promising platform for antibody-type biosensors, enabling rapid and cost-effective point-of-care diagnostics. This study investigates the development, fabrication, and electrochemical performance of large and miniaturized PPCEs functionalized for antibody-type detection, with the eventual goal of detecting pancreatic cancer specific biomarkers. The PPCEs were made of silver- and carbon- based inks that were formulated to be pad printable and conductive and printed on polycarbonate film so they can be easily disposed of after use. Each PPCE was thoroughly cleaned with ethanol several times to ensure a clean base on which to adsorb antibodies and antigens. The PPCEs were characterized at each point in their development by taking contact angle measurements, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The large and miniaturized PPCEs were successfully pad printed. Both types of PPCEs showed resistance below 20 Î© between the contact legs and the electrode heads. The active area to surface area ratio was above 1.5 for the large PPCEs and above 2.5 for the miniaturized PPCEs. Strong CV current peaks were observed, indicating diffusion as the primary electron transport mode and quasi-reversible chemical reactions. Additionally, both electrode types exhibited modellable EIS behaviors. Each of these characteristics indicate the feasibility of using PPCEs for antibody-type detection. The miniaturized PPCEs performed better, on average, than their large counterparts with more distinct Nyquist plots and clearer difference between antibody and antigen functionalized layers. This indicates that the miniaturized sensors may perform as well as or better than the large PPCEs for antibody-type testing as well as having the advantages of using less material, requiring a smaller volume of blood, and fitting multiple PPCEs onto a single test strip. The success of these PPCEs could significantly improve early detection and continued monitoring of pancreatic cancer, empowering patients to track their disease progression conveniently at home and potentially leading to better outcomes through earlier intervention.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering; Manufacturing Engineering

Rights

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