The development of a novel, highly sensitive electrochemical sensor for ASP based on an alizarin red S-functionalized zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ALZ@ZIF-8) nanocomposite. The nanocomposite was synthesized via a one-pot approach and fabricated on a carbon paste electrode (ALZ@ZIF-8/CPE). Its interaction with ASP was elucidated through density functional theory (DFT) calculations and electrochemical analysis, while its structure was confirmed using SEM, XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis, and spectrofluorimetric techniques. Under optimized conditions, a square-wave voltammetric (SWV) method was developed and rigorously validated. The sensor demonstrated a wide linear range from 0.01 to 14.0 µM, with exceptional sub-micromolar sensitivity (detection limit: 3.45 nM; quantification limit: 10.46 nM). The method showed high accuracy (recoveries: 99.26–101.62%) and precision (relative standard deviation, RSD ≤ 1.01%). Successful application to spiked human plasma yielded recoveries ≥ 98.84% with RSDs ≤ 1.61%, confirming practical utility. This work presents the first application of the ALZ@ZIF-8 nanocomposite in analysis. The proposed sensor offers a promising and adaptable platform for the sensitive detection of ASP and other target molecules in complex biological media.

RNAs are known for versatile functions and therapeutic utility. They have gained significant interest since the approval of several RNA drugs, including COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and therapeutic agents targeting liver diseases. There are increasing expectations for a new class of RNA drugs for broader applications. Successful development of RNA drugs for new applications hinges on understanding their diverse functions and structures. In this review, we explore the last five years of literature to understand current approaches to formulate a spectrum of RNA drugs, focusing on new efforts to expand their applications beyond vaccines and liver diseases.