An Electrochemical Sensor for Tenofovir Monitoring

Abstract

Effective monitoring of tenofovir (TFV) adherence is critical for ensuring the success of antiretroviral therapies in preventing and managing HIV, as nonadherence can lead to treatment failure and the development of drug-resistant strains. In this study, a highly sensitive and selective novel biomimetic sensor for TFV determination is developed utilizing laser-scribed graphene (LSG) modified with gold spiky nanostructures (AuNSp) and molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP). The MIP layer is engineered with precise control to maximize molecular specificity for TFV. Electrochemical characterization demonstrates excellent performance, including the broadest linear detection range (10 nM to 200 μM) reported to date with a sensitivity of 30.02 μA/log(μM), and an ultralow limit of detection of 3 nM. The sensor demonstrates flexibility, stability, and selectivity under stressed conditions, highlighting its robustness. Analytical validation in urine matrices demonstrates high recovery rates (92.5%–113%) and repeatability (RSD ≤ 7.0%) in biological samples, highlighted its clinical relevance. By integrating advanced nanomaterials and molecular imprinting, the LSG/AuNSp/MIP sensor extends the dynamic range of MIP-based biosensors. It emerges as a transformative point-of-care technology for TFV adherence monitoring in human immunodeficiency virus management, effectively bridging a critical gap in drug compliance assessment and contributing to advancing global health initiatives.