An ordered mesoporous carbon–silica hybrid for the detection of the antiviral drug ribavirin in clinical samples

Abstract

Ribavirin (RIB) is widely used for the treatment of viral diseases such as herpes, hepatitis C, and Lassa fever. Moreover, to control the spread of COVID-19, the consumption of antiviral medicines, including RIB, has increased significantly worldwide. By combining ordered mesoporous carbon with silica nanoparticles via ultrasound, we synthesized silica/ordered mesoporous carbon (SiO₂–OMC) hybrid composites that show excellent electrochemical performance. The hybrid composite was found to contain spherical SiO₂ nanoparticles having diameters ranging from 21 to 29 nm. A sensor comprising a carbon paste electrode and SiO₂–OMC (SiO₂–OMC/CPE) facilitated the ultrasensitive and selective detection of RIB at an oxidation potential of 0.71 V, having a linear range of 0.1–40 μmol L⁻¹, limit of detection of 0.067 μmol L⁻¹, and sensitivity of 1.969 μA μmol⁻¹ L. Furthermore, the results indicate that charge transfer at the interface of the SiO₂–OMC hybrid results in a synergistic effect compared to OMC and SiO₂ alone. The advantages include the potential for regenerating the sensor surface, rapid and facile production, and suitability for the detection of RIB in capsule, human plasma, and urine samples, making SiO₂–OMC/CPE a promising interface for bioelectrochemical applications.