Copper oxide nanoparticles modified electrodes for high-sensitivity detection of uric acid in athletes

This study introduces an innovative electrochemical sensor leveraging copper oxide nanoparticles for detecting uric acid levels in athletes with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Employing a novel synthesis protocol, uniform copper oxide nanoparticles were integrated into a chitosan-glutathione biogel matrix, creating a high-performance sensing electrode. The nanoparticles were extensively characterized using XRD, SEM, FTIR, and XPS techniques, confirming their crystalline structure, morphology, and purity. The average crystallite size was determined to be 18 nm. Electrochemical evaluation of the sensor using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed significantly improved electron transfer kinetics and catalytic activity towards uric acid oxidation. The sensor exhibited a wide linear detection range from 1 μM to 1.2 mM, encompassing both physiological and pathological uric acid levels. Notably, the limit of detection was found to be 0.27 μM, surpassing the performance of most existing metal oxide based uric acid sensors. The sensor also demonstrated excellent anti-interference capability against commonly coexisting species in biological fluids. Furthermore, the practical applicability of the sensor was validated by successfully determining uric acid concentrations in human serum, plasma, and sweat samples, with impressive recovery rates ranging from 96% to 102%. The stability, reproducibility, and cost-effectiveness of the developed sensor make it a promising tool for routine health monitoring and early intervention in athletes, facilitating personalized training and preventing complications associated with uric acid imbalances. The present work offers a significant advancement in non-invasive, reliable, and efficient assessment of uric acid, with potential for widespread implementation in sports medicine and general healthcare.