A review for cortisol sensing in medical applications

Abstract

Cortisol, one of the most important glucocorticoids, plays a critical role in various physiological processes. Elevated cortisol levels have been associated with chronic stress, increased vulnerability to anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immune responses. Consequently, the development of reliable, effective, and rapid cortisol detection methods is invaluable for understanding the dynamic stress-response profile of individuals, enabling comprehensive self-monitoring, personalized healthcare, and effective health management. Cortisol sensors offer limitless possibilities in terms of their applications, featuring straightforward sensor preparation and wide detection limits. To sum, the future of cortisol sensing in medical applications holds immense assure for transforming stress management, mental health care, chronic disease management, athletic performance optimization, and personalized medicine, with significant benefits for individuals and healthcare providers alike. This review gives a wide overview of current state of cortisol hormone sensors, encompassing their working mechanisms and diverse applications. By examining the advancements in cortisol sensing technology, this review aims to provide insights into the potential of cortisol sensing in healthcare and its implications for improved patient outcomes.