Abstract
Novel and sensitive electrochemical sensor was fabricated for the assay of anti-HCV ledipasvir (LEDV) in different matrices. The designed sensor was based on 3D spinel ferromagnetic NiFe2O4 nanospheres and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) supported by morpholinium acid sulphate (MHS), as an ionic liquid (RGO/NSNiFe2O4/MHS). This sensor design was assigned to synergistically tailor the unique properties of nanostructured ferrites, RGO, and ionic liquid to maximize the sensor response. Electrode modification prevented aggregation of NiFe2O4, increasing electroactive surface area and allowed remarkable electro-catalytic oxidation of LEDV with an enhanced oxidation response. Differential pulse voltammetry was used for detection LEDV in complex matrices whereas; cyclic voltammetry and other techniques were employed to characterize the developed sensor properties. All experimental factors regarding sensor fabrication and chemical sensing properties were carefully studied and optimized. Under the optimum conditions, the designated sensor displayed a wide linear range (0.4–350 ng mL-1) with LOD of 0.133 ng mL-1. Additionally, the proposed sensor demonstrated good selectivity, stability and reproducibility, enabling the quantitative detection of LEDV in Harvoni® tablets, human plasma and in a pharmacokinetic study. Our findings suggest that the developed sensor is a potential prototype material for fabrication of high-performance electrochemical sensors.
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•The RGO/NS NiFe2O4/MHS hybrid was synthesized via a facile wet chemical route for the first time.•An enhanced electro-catalytic property of the hybrid has been demonstrated.•The constructed sensor displays super performances for the ledipasvir detection for the first time.•Advantages include excellent practicability with remarkable reliability.•The developed sensor was used for monitoring ledipasvir during its pharmacokinetic study in human plasma.