Electrochemical detection of human papillomavirus DNA based on an ultrasensitive electrochemical sensing platform using N-graphene paper

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer, a major global health concern affecting women worldwide. Early detection of high-risk HPV genotypes is crucial for timely intervention and reducing disease burden. However, current detection methods often lack sensitivity, speed, or cost-effectiveness, especially in resource-limited settings. This work addresses this critical need by developing an ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensing platform based on nitrogen-doped graphene paper electrodes for quantifying high-risk HPV16 DNA sequences. The N-graphene nanohybrid, fabricated via simple solvothermal treatment of biomass-derived graphene oxide, demonstrated significantly enhanced electrical and electrocatalytic properties compared to undoped graphene. DNA detection was achieved through characteristic oxidation signals of guanine bases, which displayed a wide linear dynamic range (0.5–100 μg/mL), low detection limit (75 pg/mL), and excellent reproducibility (relative standard deviation