Review: Electrochemical DNA sensing – Principles, commercial systems, and applications

Driven by the vision of robust and portable, yet sensitive DNA detection systems for point-of-need applications, the development of electrochemical DNA sensing principles has been of high interest. Many different principles have been developed and these are regularly reviewed. However, the maturity of electrochemical principles and their ability to produce competitive real-world applications is rarely assessed. In this review, general electrochemical DNA sensing principles are briefly introduced and categorized into heterogeneous vs. homogeneous approaches, and then the subcategories label-free vs. labeled and reagent-less vs. reagent-dependent principles. We then focus on reviewing the electrochemical sensing principles implemented in DNA detection systems, which are commercially available or close to market entry, considering the complete analysis process, automation and the field of application. This allows us to outline and discuss which principles have proved suitable for which kinds of applications, as well as the stage of integration and automation. Examples from all the identified categories of electrochemical DNA sensing principles have found application in commercial detection systems or advanced prototypes. Various applications have already been demonstrated, ranging from on-site skin care testing, to food safety to the most frequent in vitro diagnostic tests, partially conducted in automated sample-to-answer devices. Our review is intended to enable researchers in areas related to electrochemistry, biochemistry or microfluidics to assess the commercial state of the art of electrochemical nucleic acid testing, and the interdisciplinary challenges for further improvements. •Maturity and commercial availability of DNA tests increased in the 2010s.•First tests provide automated analysis from sample to answer and FDA clearance.•Applications are in the field of food, veterinary and in-vitro diagnostic testing.•Heterogeneous and homogeneous DNA sensing principles proofed successful.