An Advanced Molecularly Imprinted Polymer‐Based Electrochemical Aptasensor for Carbendazim Detection

This study reports the development of a dual‐recognition electrochemical aptasensor that integrates a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and an aptamer for the detection of a common pesticide carbendazim (CBZ). In contrast to conventional sensors solely on MIPs or aptamers, the proposed strategy enhances analytical performance by synergistically combining the high target specificity of aptamers with the structural similarities and stability afforded by molecular imprinting. Platinum nanoparticles and graphene oxide were electrodeposited on the glassy carbon electrode (Pt‐rGO/GCE) to form a highly conductive platform for immobilization of the CBZ‐specific aptamer. Methylene blue was subsequently electropolymerized to generate an effective imprinted polymer layer. Following the removal of the CBZ template, the resulting imprint cavities were complementary in size and shape to CBZ molecules. Upon rebinding of CBZ into these imprinted sites, its nonconductive nature hindered electron transfer of the redox probe K 4 [Fe(CN) 6 ] at the electrode surface, leading to a measurable decrease in current. The developed sensor showed a linear response to CBZ ranging from 0.4 n m to 20 n m , with a limit of detection of 1.3 n m . The sensor demonstrated superior selectivity toward CBZ over structurally similar compounds, establishing a reliable platform for future CBZ monitoring applications.