Researchers have successfully developed a modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the detection of azithromycin, significantly enhancing sensitivity and reliability. This groundbreaking work emerges against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, where azithromycin has been widely used as part of treatment regimens.
The innovative electrode, known as the poly-threonine modified carbon paste electrode (PTCPE), utilizes electro-polymerization to increase the efficiency of azithromycin detection. The study revealed impressive results, with the PTCPE demonstrating sensitivity to azithromycin concentrations as low as 0.32 µM—a detection limit significantly lower than those achieved by previous methods.
Azithromycin is one of the key antibiotics prescribed during the pandemic, noted for its antibacterial and potential antiviral properties. It normally treats mild to moderate bacterial infections, but recent studies have also highlighted its effectiveness against various viruses, making its detection all the more important. The researchers noted, “the sensor’s feasibility was assessed by detecting AM in pharmaceutical samples using standard addition methods, confirming its practical utility.”
Utilizing techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), the team characterized the electrode's performance. The PTCPE was prepared by hand mixing graphite powder with paraffin oil to form the carbon paste, which was then modified through electro-polymerization with poly-threonine. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to confirm the successful coating on the electrode surface, showing uniform characteristics necessary for effective sensing.
The study also analyzed several variables affecting the electrochemical response, such as pH, scan rate, and accumulation time. Notably, the best performance was recorded at physiological pH levels (7.4), simulating conditions within the human body during potential therapeutic applications.
This modified electrode not only proved effective for detecting azithromycin but also displayed excellent selectivity when tested alongside various pharmaceutical compounds, ensuring minimal interference. The researchers concluded, “the proposed approach was easy to use, inexpensive and sensitive enough to detect AM in medicinal capsules under physiological circumstances,” underscoring its significance for real-world applications.
The development of this new electrode method presents numerous advantages over traditional analytical techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which often require complex procedures and costly preparations. While other methods have been employed with different polymers and approaches, the PTCPE model stands out due to its straightforward fabrication and operational effectiveness.
The promising results indicate potential for widespread adoption of the PTCPE for clinical and pharmaceutical use, making it easier for laboratories and healthcare professionals to monitor azithromycin levels precisely and efficiently. This study reflects not only advances within analytical chemistry but also emphasizes the importance of innovation during global health crises.