Multi-analyte biosensors are devices that are capable of detecting multiple biomarkers simultaneously, and are attracting substantial interest. They have the ability to identify and quantify several distinct biomolecular targets, such as proteins, nucleic acids, metabolites or pathogens in a single assay.
The multiplexing approach of these biosensors contrasts with traditional single-analyte sensors, which are restricted to one target per device. But are these biosensors the future of diagnostics and should every next generation device have multi-analyte capabilities?
To understand the true promise of multi-analyte biosensors, it's helpful to break down their advantages into clinical, operational, economic and strategic dimensions. Each of the following benefits illustrates why multiplexing is a foundational shift in biosensing strategy rather than just an additional feature
In fields such as oncology and metabolic disease, clinicians increasingly rely on panels of biomarkers for areas like prognosis and monitoring. Multi-analyte biosensors allow these panels to be assessed in real-time, at the point of care, rather than via sequential lab-based assays that can take long periods of time to perform.
These platforms dramatically reduce the required sample volume, which is particularly beneficial in neonatal and geriatric care, or in non-invasive matrices like saliva and sweat. Reagent use is also minimised in these biosensors, making workflows simpler and more sustainable going forward.
Consolidating multiple tests into one device reduces labour and time per assay, driving down overall diagnostic costs. This is crucial in high-throughput settings such as screening programmes and emergency departments. Alongside this, more assays can be performed in a shorter amount of time, benefitting clinicians and patients alike.
As medicine moves towards more tailored therapies, the need for comprehensive, on-demand biomarker profiling will only intensify. Multiplex biosensors are ideally suited to this task and have the potential to result in exciting new ventures in the field over the next few decades.
Despite their appeal, multi-analyte biosensors face significant barriers to widespread adoption.
Despite promising research, multi-analyte biosensors are rarely found in commercial diagnostics. One reason is that conventional materials do not adequately support the demands of multiplex detection. This form of detection is proven to have great benefits in a wide range of diagnostics areas that currently rely on using multiple platforms to address different analytes. Disease testing and autoimmune and inflammatory disorders are just a couple of examples of where multiplexed capabilities can bring great benefits.
Whilst graphene oxide, gold, and platinum have been explored, each presents trade-offs in terms of stability, biocompatibility or cost. On top of that, complex fabrication methods can lack scalability, and the susceptibility of these materials to fouling limits sensor lifespan and accuracy in complex biological matrices. Simply put, there has been no material that is positioned to enable electrochemical biosensors to truly be multiplexed.
This is where Gii enters the conversation. Gii is a proprietary three-dimensional carbon nanomaterial developed specifically for sensing applications that enables full multiplexing capabilities. Its structure combines a high surface-area-to-volume ratio with robust electrical conductivity and inherent biocompatibility.
Importantly, Gii can be functionalised without compromising its electronic performance where conventional materials falter. Recent studies have demonstrated Gii-Sens platforms for simultaneous detection of cytokines, stress biomarkers, glucose, and lactate with clinical precision. Gii enables electrochemical sensors to address these analytes, consolidating platforms in a point of care device. Currently no other material (gold, printed carbon etc) is positioned to enable electrochemistry in the same way.
To find out more about Gii and its innovative potential, download our guide below.