Engineering High-Efficiency Non-Enzymatic Catalysts for Reliable Glucose Sensing

The design and optimization of non-enzymatic glucose monitoring catalysts are pivotal for developing efficient and stable glucose sensors. This review highlights recent progress in high-performance catalysts, focusing on transition metal oxides (e.g., CuO, NiO, Co3O4), carbon-based materials (e.g., graphene, carbon nanotubes, carbon quantum dots), and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These materials demonstrate outstanding catalytic activity and stability due to their unique physicochemical properties. The influence of nanostructures such as nanoparticles, nanowires, nanosheets, and nanoflowers on performance is discussed, emphasizing how morphology, size, and surface area optimization enhance efficiency. Key challenges, including long-term stability and anti-interference capabilities, are examined, along with evaluation methods and improvement strategies. The review also explores the potential applications of environmentally friendly catalysts in healthcare, food safety, and environmental monitoring, underscoring their practical significance. This study offers valuable perspectives to inform the creation of innovative, environmentally friendly non-enzymatic glucose monitoring systems, which have a wide range of potential applications.