Nanoflower biosensors in the first trimester: A paradigm shift in the early detection of pregnancy complications
- Author:
Wiku Andonotopo
1
;
Muhammad Adrianes Bachnas
2
;
Julian Dewantiningrum
3
;
Mochammad Besari Adi Pramono
4
;
I Nyoman Hariyasa Sanjaya
5
;
Milan Stanojevi
6
;
Asim Kurjak
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords: First‑trimester screening; nanoflower biosensors; prenatal diagnostics
- MeSH: nanotechnology; pregnancy complications
- From: Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2025;49(3):149-160
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
- Abstract: Detecting pregnancy complications during the first trimester remains a major challenge in obstetric care, as current screening tools often lack sensitivity to identify early risks such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and gestational diabetes. Advances in nanotechnology, particularly nanoflower biosensors, have created new opportunities for precise, noninvasive diagnostics. Nanoflowers are nanoscale, flower-like structures with high surface area and unique electronic properties, enabling ultrasensitive detection of low-abundance biomarkers including placental growth factor, human chorionic gonadotropin variants, circulating cell-free DNA, and microRNAs. This review synthesizes the biological principles, fabrication techniques, and diagnostic applications of nanoflower biosensors, with emphasis on first-trimester implementation. Platforms discussed include metal–organic frameworks, carbon nanostructures, and hybrid composites, evaluated for sensitivity, signal amplification, and adaptability to point-of-care settings. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies highlights their superior detection thresholds compared with conventional assays, supporting earlier recognition of complications and potential integration into predictive models. While the promise of nanoflower biosensors lies in advancing first-trimester surveillance, translation into clinical practice requires larger validation cohorts, regulatory alignment, and ethical safeguards to address risks of overdiagnosis and inequity. Future directions include multiplex detection, mobile health integration, and personalized risk stratification pathways. By bridging nanotechnology and maternal–fetal medicine, nanoflower biosensors represent a paradigm shift toward precision diagnostics in prenatal care, offering transformative potential for early intervention and improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.
- Full text:2026063010391464255nanoflower.pdf
