A novel real-time TMAO detection method based on microbial electrochemical technology

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is considered to be a novel biomarker of cardiovascular diseases. However, the traditional TMAO detection method has failed to meet the requirements of real-time and point-of-care tests. Herein, a novel TMAO detection method based on microbial electrochemical technology is established, which realizes the direct conversion of TMAO concentration into electrical signals. Attached Shewanella loihica PV-4 was first proven to be capable of simultaneous inward extracellular electron transfer and TMAO reduction. The TMAO detection method showed a wide linear range of 0 to 250 μM, a high sensitivity of 23.92 μA/mM, and a low limit of detection of 5.96 μM. In addition, the TMAO detection process was accomplished within 600 s, with an acceptable accuracy of 90% in the real serum, showing high feasibility in clinical applications.