Cardiac Troponin I Biosensors: Innovations in Real-Time Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Diseases

Abstract

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is a crucial biological macromolecule found in the contractile apparatus of cardiac myocytes, exclusively expressed in cardiomyocytes. It is released into the bloodstream upon cardiac tissue injury, serving as a vital biomarker for the early detection of various heart diseases. Despite advancements in cTnI diagnostics and cardiovascular disease (CVD) detection, there is an ongoing need for more effective early diagnostic methods and innovative approaches. Current CVD diagnosis often relies on clinical signs and symptoms, supplemented by molecular imaging (MI) or biomarkers associated with CVD. However, challenges remain regarding the reliability, specificity and accuracy of analyses for myocardial infarction, particularly in its early stages. Emerging nanomaterial systems present promising solutions for enhancing diagnostic tools due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Various nanomaterials, such as gold nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, lipids and polymer nanoparticles, are paving new pathways for cardiac disease detection. The advancements in nanomaterial science offer exciting opportunities for cardiac screening. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these advancements, categorizing research efforts focused on both optical and electrochemical platforms, thereby contributing to the evolution of cardiac screening methodologies and addressing the critical need for reliable early diagnostic solutions.