Recent advances in graphene-based electrochemical biosensors for major non-communicable diseases

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurological disorders, represent a growing global health challenge, driving an urgent need for rapid, sensitive, and affordable diagnostic technologies. Graphene-based materials, with their exceptional physicochemical properties, offer transformative potential for the development of next-generation electrochemical biosensors. This review highlights recent advancements in the use of graphene derivatives (such as reduced graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots, laser-induced graphene, and covalently functionalized graphene) for the electrochemical detection of key biomarkers associated with major non-communicable diseases. We critically analyze strategies for enhancing biosensor performance, discuss innovations in biomarker recognition and real-sample validation, and underscore emerging trends toward wearable, minimally invasive platforms. Particular emphasis is placed on the challenges of selectivity, stability, and clinical translation, as well as on the need for reproducible material synthesis and device standardization. By bridging material science with biomedical applications, graphene-based biosensors are poised to enable earlier diagnosis, continuous monitoring, and improved management of non-communicable diseases, ultimately contributing to the advancement of global healthcare.