ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Recent advances in carbon dots and their nanocomposite-based sensors for neurotransmitters detection

Lazo J. Mohammed and Khalid M. Omer

Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, American University of Iraq-Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Iraq

E-mail: khalid.omer@univsul.edu.iq

Abstract:

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells (neurons) or from neurons to muscles or glands, enabling communication throughout the nervous system. Epinephrine (EP) and norepinephrine (NE) are vital catecholamine neurotransmitters whose abnormal levels are closely linked to numerous physiological disorders. Hence, the sensitive, selective, and low-cost probe for detection of these biomolecules is essential for clinical diagnostics and health monitoring. In recent years, carbon dots (CDs) have developed as promising sensing platforms owing to their exclusive optical properties, excellent biocompatibility, facile functionalization, and versatile integration into composite materials. This review systematically underscores the advances in CDs and CDs-based nanocomposites for the detection of EP and NE, emphasizing fluorescence, colorimetric, chemiluminescence, and electrochemical sensing strategies. We discuss various approaches, including ratiometric fluorescence probes, dual-mode sensors, and paper-based analytical devices, which leverage the strong photoluminescence and surface tunability of CDs for enhanced analytical performance. Additionally, we reviewed the methods and strategies for the preparation of CDs-based nanocomposites, detailing the advantages and limitations of each technique to guide future material design. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms for sensing such as photoinduced electron transfer, aggregation-induced quenching, and inner-filter effect are elucidated to provide deeper insight into the design of effective sensing systems. Finally, we outline current challenges and propose future perspectives for developing more robust, portable, and multiplexed sensors aimed at real-time monitoring of EP and NE in complex biological samples.

Graphical abstract

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04616-1

Chemical Papers 80 (5) 4517–4537 (2026)