Biosensor Based on Nanofibrous Membranes

To design an electrochemical biosensor, different factors must be taken into account, including (i) the detected or measured parameter, (ii) the working principle of the transducer, (iii) the physical and chemical/biochemical model, (iv) the application, and (v) the technology and materials for sensor fabrication [84], 

Materials used in electrochemical biosensors can greatly benefit from nanotechnology. Nanomaterials are especially used to immobilize the recognition elements and improve the transport of the electrical signal from the biorecognition element to the electrode surface (the transducer). A weak immobilization protocol affects the biosensor stability during use and storage and prejudices the overall functionality of the biosensor [85-89]. 

The kinetic of the biocatalysis was determined before and after the immobilization of the enzyme on the nanofibrous membrane. The kinetic constants ( and Vniax) sured by studying the relationship between the steady-state current and the concentration 

These experiences indicate a strong relationship between NFM and the protein. The high concentration of functional groups in the surface area of the NFM can be responsible for stretching of the immobilized proteins, and changes on their original configuration. 

Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies The Royal Society, 2004, ISBN 0 85403 604 0, http //www.nanotec.org.uk/finalReport.htm. 

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To exemplify the working principle of a mediated electrochemical biosensor. Figure 13.17 shows the typical response obtained with a glucose biosensor based on nanofibrous membranes. The cyclic voltammetry response of the mediator (dotted line) shows a simple reversible one electron signal. By adding glucose, an increase of the anodic current is observed, as expected from a catalytic process (Scheme 13.1) [97, 98], No peaks are observed, but a large steady-state catalytic current. 

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