Unveiling Transformation from Electrochemical Biosensors to Commercial Point-of-Care Devices: A Case Study for SARS-CoV-2

Infectious diseases, triggered by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites, propagate through contact, vectors, or environmental sources, often intensifying pandemics and causing significant societal disruptions. These diseases can severely impact global economies, employment, mental well-being, and public health. The rapid mutation of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 complicates detection and treatment, making timely intervention crucial. Electrochemical biosensors, developed with advanced nanostructured biorecognition units and electroanalytical techniques, are central to addressing the challenges posed by SARS-CoV-2. The state-of-the-art research on electrochemical biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis is thoroughly summarized in this review. These consist of the identification of spike protein (S protein)/RBD, nucleocapsid protein (N protein), antibodies, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), entire viruses, and some of the biomarkers. Point-of-care (POC) devices have become essential in the fight against the pandemic, enabling rapid diagnosis, early treatment, and effective containment. They increase testing accessibility, reduce viral transmission, and ultimately save lives. This review highlights the latest advancements in electrochemical biosensors. It offers an overview of currently available POC devices/diagnostic tools (a total of 55 assay kits and devices) and the challenges of translating laboratory research into practical, deployable technologies. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) with sensor data fusion (SDF) methods could be implemented for real-time analysis. The insights and innovations presented here aim to aid researchers in designing electrochemical sensors adaptable to future pathogens, advancing global health security.