Spatially Controlled DNA Hydrogel-MXCT Nanofluidic Biosensor for Noninvasive Iontronic Detection of Estradiol across the Menstrual Cycle.

Li, Na; Pan, Zhoujian; Yan, Yan; Li, Yanlei; Ma, Qun; Wang, Cheng; Liu, Fanglan; Mai, Xi et al. · Nano Lett · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Accurate monitoring of estradiol (E2) is crucial for assessing reproductive health, managing fertility, and diagnosing endocrine disorders. We report a noninvasive iontronic biosensor based on a DNA hydrogel-functionalized MXene/Cu-TCPP (MXCT) nanofluidic membrane for ultrasensitive salivary E2 detection. The MXCT laminate, formed by alternating Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub><i>x</i></sub> MXene and Cu-TCPP nanosheets, provides a mechanically robust, conductive, and ion-selective 2D framework. Within these confined nanochannels, aptamer-triggered DNA hydrogel assembly produces volumetric steric modulation, enabling three-dimensional spatial control of ion transport beyond conventional surface regulation. This synergistic hydrogel-nanofluidic coupling yields femtomolar sensitivity, a detection range of 50 fM-500 pM, and a detection limit of 28 fM, with excellent selectivity and reproducibility. The platform enables salivary E2 profiling across menstrual cycles, accurately capturing physiological hormonal dynamics. This work establishes a robust strategy for hydrogel-gated nanofluidic iontronics, offering a promising route toward low-cost, portable hormone diagnostics and broader molecular sensing applications.

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