Researchers have developed a plasma-synthesized copper biosensor that rapidly detects the ovarian cancer biomarker CA 125, offering promise for affordable early diagnosis.
Researchers have developed a plasma-synthesized copper-based optical biosensor capable of detecting cancer antigen 125 (CA 125), a key biomarker used in ovarian cancer diagnosis. Published in the journal Nanomaterials, the study presents a rapid, scalable and environmentally friendly manufacturing process that could pave the way for affordable point-of-care cancer screening.
The research team used a low-temperature radio-frequency plasma synthesis technique to produce copper-pyrrole sensing materials, replacing conventional chemical synthesis methods that often require multiple processing steps and generate hazardous waste. The plasma process enables rapid material production while reducing the need for high temperatures and large quantities of chemical reagents.
Unlike traditional optical biosensors that rely on costly gold or silver, the new sensor uses abundant and inexpensive copper without compromising sensing performance. Laboratory analyses confirmed the successful formation of the copper-pyrrole material and its ability to bind antibodies targeting CA 125, creating a functional biosensor for cancer detection.
Testing showed that the sensor exhibited excellent stability, maintaining consistent fluorescence after two weeks of storage and across a broad pH range. When exposed to increasing concentrations of CA 125, fluorescence intensity decreased proportionally, allowing accurate detection of the biomarker at concentrations of 35 U/mL and above, the clinical threshold commonly associated with possible ovarian cancer. Preliminary selectivity tests also demonstrated that the sensor responded specifically to CA 125 without interference from other common biomolecules.
Researchers believe the technology could support earlier ovarian cancer diagnosis, routine screening, treatment monitoring and disease recurrence detection. Beyond ovarian cancer, the plasma synthesis approach may enable the development of affordable biosensors for cardiac biomarkers, metabolic disorders and environmental contaminants.
Although further clinical validation using human serum samples is required, the study highlights a practical pathway towards low-cost, portable diagnostic devices by combining scalable plasma manufacturing with copper-based sensing materials.
