Electrochemical and Nanomaterial-Based Strategies for Nonenzymatic Glucose Detection: A Review.

Abstract

Electrochemical glucose sensing technologies have undergone significant evolution, with continual advancements aimed at improving sensitivity, selectivity, and user convenience. This review systematically explores the development of emerging nonenzymatic glucose sensor designs. Nonenzymatic sensors are critically evaluated for their ability to overcome enzymatic limitations, leveraging novel materials and catalytic mechanisms. Additionally, the emergence of smartphone-integrated glucose monitoring systems is highlighted as the fifth generation, representing a paradigm shift toward personalized, real-time healthcare management. Emphasis is placed on the strategies employed to reduce the working electrode potential and enhance analytical performance. Key analytical metrics and real-sample applicability are evaluated, and persistent challenges including reliability, biocompatibility, and calibration-free operation are identified. Further, this review provides a critical perspective on the trajectory of electrochemical nonenzymatic glucose sensor technologies and outlines future directions toward the development of next-generation platforms for continuous and noninvasive glucose monitoring.