Nanomaterial‐Based CRISPR/Cas‐Powered Electrochemical Sensing Integrated With Microfluidics for Rapid and Sensitive Diagnostics

ABSTRACT

Rapid and sensitive detection of disease‐related biomarkers is critical for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, conventional analytical methods are often time‐consuming and require complex procedures and skilled personnel. Electrochemical biosensors have therefore attracted considerable attention because they offer high sensitivity, rapid response, low cost and strong potential for point‐of‐care diagnostics. Recent efforts have focused on enhancing analytical performance through electrode interface engineering and signal amplification strategies. In particular, nanomaterials are widely employed to improve interfacial signal transduction and increase the loading density of biorecognition elements. In addition, CRISPR/Cas systems provide highly specific target recognition and inherent signal amplification, enabling the sensitive detection of diverse analytes. More recently, microfluidic technologies have emerged as key components in electrochemical biosensing platforms, enabling precise manipulation of small sample volumes, reduced reagent consumption, accelerated reaction kinetics and automated sample‐to‐answer analysis. They also facilitate multiplexed detection and support the development of compact, portable diagnostic devices. Furthermore, microfluidic platforms enable the integration of multiple analytical steps, including sample preparation, target recognition and signal readout, within a single miniaturised system, thereby improving analytical efficiency while minimising user intervention and operational errors. These advantages make microfluidic‐integrated electrochemical biosensors promising candidates for next‐generation portable diagnostic technologies. In this review, we summarise the fundamental principles of electrochemical biosensors and highlight recent advances in nanomaterial‐based interface design, CRISPR‐assisted electrochemical sensing and microfluidic‐integrated platforms for practical diagnostic applications.