The unmet needs in point-of-care diagnostics are expected to be fulfilled with the next generation of tools based on highly versatile nanostructured electrochemical biosensing platforms. Tuning of the morphological features and electrochemical properties of the nanostructured material is key. Among the various materials available, porous silicon stands out due to its major advantages for electrochemical analysis, such as high surface-to-volume ratio, unique charge transport properties, control over morphological and electrical features, and ease of chemical modification of the surface. A new set of porous silicon-based nanostructures has been designed to unlock new sensing paradigms, enhance the sensor sensitivity and selectivity, and shorten the analysis time. Examples of the use of such nanostructured sensors are discussed demonstrating their potential to solve specific health and environmental problems.

Dr Beatriz Prieto-Simon is a Ramón y Cajal Research Fellow whose research in the multidisciplinary domain of bio-inspired nanotechnologies covers the design, micro- and nanofabrication, and surface chemistry of emerging nanostructures, to integrate them in diagnostic devices fit-for-purpose designed. She is conducting research on Si-based nanotechnologies, such as the fabrication of arrays of parallel double-layered nanochannels with site-specifically displayed receptors, and tunable electrochemical features. Her key research interest lies in unveiling fundamental advances on synergies at the interface of nanostructured materials (multilayered porous structures) and biological processes to lay the foundation for building smart platforms based on principles found in nature, aiming to strengthen their scientific and societal impact.