Portable and wireless DNA nanosensor for early detection of lung cancer using ultrafast synthesis of 1T-MoS2/liposome-AuNP modified transducer

Abstract

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, underscoring the need for early and accurate detection methods. This study aimed to develop an ultrafast synthesis technique for converting bulk MoS₂ into few-layered MoS2 nanosheets in a metastable 1T phase (sdMoS2) via electrochemical deposition with sonication in just 80 s. The resulting sdMoS2 exhibited high electrical conductivity and a large surface area, which facilitated the controlled assembly of 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP) vesicle liposomes on its surface. This configuration enabled label-free, highly selective electrochemical detection of lung cancer DNA at ultratrace concentrations. Gold nanoparticles were electrostatically bound to the sdMoS2-DOTAP complex, providing a platform for the covalent attachment of thiol-functionalized single-stranded DNA. The resulting DNA nanobiosensor demonstrated ultrasensitive hybridization capabilities, with a detection range spanning from 1 × 10− 17 to 1 × 10− 6 M and a detection limit of 1 × 10− 15 M. To enhance portability, the sensor interface was integrated with a wireless potentiostat based on the Arduino Nano 33 IoT, enabling DNA detection via changes in open-circuit potential (OCP). The device incorporated wireless communication, server-side data logging, and a mobile application, creating a compact and user-friendly platform for real-time electrochemical monitoring. Its portability and wireless features make it highly suitable for remote and field-based diagnostic applications. The developed system offered a compact, cost-effective, and field-deployable solution for lung cancer DNA detection, significantly reducing analysis time and paving the way for potential commercialization in point-of-care diagnostic applications.