A MIP-based impedimetric sensor for the detection of low-MW molecules

R. Thoelen*, R. Vansweevelt, Johan Duchateau, F. Horemans, J. D'Haen, L. Lutsen, D. Vanderzande, Marcel Ameloot, M. VandeVen, T. J. Cleij, P. Wagner

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Mimicking the selectivity and sensitivity of biological systems for sensor devices is of increasing interest in biomedical, environmental and chemical analysis. Synthetic materials with imprinted nanocavities, acting as highly selective artificial receptors, are a tailor-made solution in obtaining such a sensor. Incorporation of such molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in a platform suitable for electrochemical measurements, can offer high sensitivity together with device miniaturization and an electronic read-out. As a proof of principle, a MIP-based sensor for L-nicotine has been developed. To this end, the molecular structure of L-nicotine was imprinted in a polymer matrix of polymethacrylic acid (PMAA). Subsequently, microparticles of the imprinted polymer were immobilized on thin films of the conjugated polymer OC(1)C(10)-PPV. These films were incorporated in an impedimetric sensing device. Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the real part of the impedance was monitored for various concentrations. This setup allows for the detection of l-nicotine from 1 to 10 nM and is insensitive for the resembling molecule L-cotinine.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)913-918
JournalBiosensors & Bioelectronics
Volume23
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Jan 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • molecular imprinting
  • L-nicotine sensor
  • impedance spectroscopy
  • conjugated polymers

Cite this