Ratiometric electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide and glucose

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection is of high importance as it is a versatile (bio) marker whose detection can indicate the presence of explosives, enzyme activity and cell signalling pathways. Herein, we demonstrate the rapid and accurate ratiometric electrochemical detection of H2O2 using disposable screen-printed electrodes through a reaction-based indicator assay. Ferrocene derivatives equipped with self-immolative linkers and boronic acid ester moieties were synthesised and tested, and, through a thorough assay optimisation, the optimum probe showed good stability, sensitivity and selectivity towards H2O2. The optimised conditions were then applied to the indirect detection of glucose via an enzymatic assay, capable of distinguishing 10 mu M from the background within minutes.