Electrochemical detection of anticancer drug in aquatic environments using multiwall carbon nanotube decorated on cerium tungsten oxide modified disposable carbon electrode

Pharmaceutical pollutants, particularly anti-androgenic drugs used in cancer therapy, have emerged as persistent contaminants in aquatic environments, posing potential risks to both ecosystems and human health. Nilutamide (NLT), an anti-androgen medication used in prostate cancer treatment, is metabolized in the liver, generating toxic by-products. Alarming concentrations of NLT have recently been reported in natural ecosystems, highlighting the need for thorough monitoring. In response, electrochemical sensors have emerged as powerful tools, providing compact, highly sensitive, and selective detection capabilities. This study reports electrochemical sensor based on Ce₂W₂O₉/ f -MWCNT nanocomposite for the determination of NLT in environmental samples. The prepared sensor demonstrated a LOD of 12 nM, linear range of 0.049–1589.09 mM and a sensitivity of 1.4 mA mM⁻¹ cm⁻² towards the electrochemical reduction of NLT. The Ce₂W₂O₉/ f -MWCNT nanocomposite works synergistically to create a conductive, catalytically active interface that accelerates electron transfer kinetics and allows for highly sensitive detection of NLT at low concentrations. In addition, the material's flexibility combined with its structural integrity ensures reliable operation and repeatable sensor responses.