Revolutionary advances in hypertension detection: Gold nanoparticle-enhanced miRNA-based electrochemical biosensors and emerging nanotechnologies

Abstract

Hypertension (HTN), a condition affecting over 1.28 billion adults worldwide, is a major contributor to premature mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Despite its global prevalence, HTN often remains undiagnosed, with less than half of the affected population receiving adequate treatment. Early detection is crucial, particularly for different types of hypertensions, including essential hypertension (EH), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and gestational hypertension such as preeclampsia (PE). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising biomarkers for HTN diagnosis due to their stability and disease-specific expression profiles. Recent advances in nanotechnology have significantly enhanced miRNA detection through the development of miRNA-based electrochemical biosensors. These biosensors offer high sensitivity and specificity for detecting miRNAs at ultra-low concentrations, making them ideal for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. The incorporation of nanomaterials such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and graphene has further improved biosensor performance, enhancing conductivity and signal amplification. These innovations have paved the way for non-invasive, rapid, and cost-effective HTN diagnostics, allowing for early intervention and personalized treatment strategies. This review highlights the advancements in miRNA-based electrochemical biosensors, particularly gold nanoparticle based, focusing on their application in HTN diagnosis and the potential to improve patient outcomes. While these biosensors hold great promise, challenges remain in translating them into clinical practice. Standardization, validation, and regulatory approval are key hurdles that require continued research and collaboration among academia, healthcare providers, and industry. Ultimately, miRNA-based electrochemical biosensors represent a transformative tool for the early detection and management of hypertension, contributing to better global health outcomes.