Electrochemical sensor for luteolin detection

Abstract This study developed an electrochemical sensor based on a nitrogen-doped hollow carbon sphere @ZIF-8 composite material (NC@ZIF-8), designed to efficiently detect the natural flavonoid luteolin. The composite material combines the high conductivity of hollow carbon spheres with the large specific surface area of ZIF-8. By optimizing the synthesis process and electrode modification conditions, the sensitivity and selectivity of the sensor were significantly enhanced. Experimental results show that the sensor exhibits excellent detection performance over a wide linear range (0.05–30 μM), with a detection limit as low as 0.011 μM. It also demonstrates good interference resistance and stability. The recovery rates for actual samples (Honeysuckle extract and watermelon juice) ranged from 95.41% to 101.20%, confirming its practical value in food safety and drug analysis.