Nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors for detection of glucose and insulin

Electrochemical sensors for the detection of specific biomolecules have attracted a lot of interest over the recent years due to their high sensitivity, selectivity, simple preparation and quick response. This article summarizes the recent progress related to the application of nanomaterials in electrochemical detection of glucose and insulin. We give an overview of electrode concepts based on nanomaterials for electrochemical non-enzymatic glucose detection and non-immune insulin detection and review the electrochemical performances and limitations of these sensors. The mechanisms of the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose on different nanomaterial-based metallic electrodes are compared. Attention is also focused on schemes of insulin detection on selected nanoparticle-modified carbon electrodes. Finally, the review outlines perspectives of future developments in electrochemical detection of both biomolecules.