Abstract
Uric acid (UA) is an important biomarker of purine metabolism, and abnormal UA levels are associated with several metabolic, renal, and cardiovascular disorders. Conventional analytical methods for UA determination are generally accurate; however, they often require sophisticated instruments, trained personnel, and laboratory-based procedures. Therefore, the development of a simple, low-cost, portable, and sensitive method for UA determination is highly desirable. This research aims to develop a paper-based electrochemical sensor using carbon nanotube (CNT) ink modified with green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) for the quantitative determination of uric acid. ZnO nanoparticles will be synthesized using neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract as an environmentally friendly approach and characterized to investigate their optical, structural, morphological, and chemical properties. A three-electrode system will be fabricated on a paper substrate using CNT conductive ink, and the working electrode will be modified with CNT–ZnO nanocomposite. The ZnO loading and CNT–ZnO dispersion conditions will be optimized to improve the electrochemical response while maintaining efficient electron transfer through the CNT network. Electrochemical characterization will be performed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) with a suitable redox probe, followed by UA detection using CV techniques. The analytical performance of the optimized sensor will be evaluated in terms of linear range, sensitivity, limit of detection, selectivity, repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. The sensor will subsequently be validated using artificial and/or real urine samples. The expected outcome is an optimized CNT–ZnO paper-based electrode with enhanced and reproducible electrochemical response toward UA. The combination of the high electrical conductivity and large surface area of CNTs with the functional surface properties of green-synthesized ZnO is expected to improve the sensing performance. Ultimately, this study is expected to contribute to the development of a portable, disposable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable electrochemical platform for quantitative UA determination, with potential application in future point-of-care testing.
Keywords: Uric acid; Paper-based electrochemical sensor; Carbon nanotubes; Zinc oxide nanoparticles; Green synthesis; CNT–ZnO nanocomposite; Cyclic voltammetry.
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