Biosynthesis of Pd@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposites for sensitive electrochemical detection of doxorubicin and their biological activities

Abstract

This study used Acalypha indica leaf extract to synthesize CuCo₂O₄ and Pd@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposites. The biosynthesised nanomaterials were employed for the electrochemical detection of the anticancer drug doxorubicin and were further evaluated for their antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The biologically synthesized nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized through a combination of analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV–Visible spectroscopy. The synthesized Pd@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposite demonstrated outstanding sensitivity, selectivity, and accuracy in the electrochemical detection of doxorubicin using differential pulse voltammetry. The Pd@CuCo₂O₄ nanocatalyst facilitated the electrochemical oxidation of doxorubicin, resulting in improved electrode surface functionality and enhanced stability and sensitivity. According to an electrochemical analysis, the developed sensor exhibits a linear response range from 0.05 to 200 µM, with a sensitivity of 0.0225 µM and a detection limit of 30 nM. The electrochemical sensing of doxorubicin can be significantly enhanced through the biosynthesis of Pd@CuCo₂O₄. This process is notable for its eco-benign nature, simplicity, and high efficiency, ultimately enabling more precise and targeted detection strategies for the anticancer drug. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities of both CuCo₂O₄ and Pd@CuCo₂O₄ nanocatalysts were evaluated.