Low-potential immunosensor-based detection of the vascular growth factor 165 (VEGF165) using the nanocomposite platform of cobalt metal–organic framework

Abstract

The vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (VEGF₁₆₅) is a quintessential biomarker in cancers. An easy and precise tool for the early detection of malignancies is required for rapid care and metastasis prevention. Cobalt-based metal–organic framework (Co-BTC-GO-MOF) nanoparticles have been used as a signal carrier for the anti-VEGF₁₆₅ signaling antibody. Cobalt-based MOF was synthesized using cobalt (Co), benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate (BTC), and graphene oxide (GO) applying a hydrothermal method. Structure, compositions, size and morphology of the qualified sensor are determined by using distinctive analytical techniques. The Co-MOF nanoparticles are found to be thermostable, as revealed by thermal stability assay. The strategy utilises an impedimetric and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) techniques in the presence of the [Fe(CN)₆]^3−/4− redox system. Compared to earlier results, this assay resulted in higher sensitivity with the limit of detection (LOD) found to be 5.23 pM in a 0.01 M buffer solution of pH 7.4 using linear scale voltammetry at room temperature. The resulting Co-BTC-GO-MOF immunosensor shows high responsiveness and selectivity in detecting VEGF₁₆₅ in real-time serum samples of cancer patients. The electrochemical performance studies confirm that the intended proposed immunosensor could pave the way for the future advancement of high-performance, sensitive, reproducible and robust immunosensors for the cost-effective and initial phase detection of cancer in the future.