SENSE-PA

Novel biosensor(s) for polyamine detection in biological samples (SENSE-PA) aims at developing Screen Printed Electrode (SPE) and Organic Electrochemical Transistor biosensors for the detection of natural polyamines, in particular spermine and spermidine, which are aliphatic polycations at the basis of cellular growth processes. Abnormal levels of such molecules in biological fluids may be an indication of ongoing cancer. For this reason, in the context of a joint action with researchers of the Jozef Stefan Institute, Slovenia, IMEM proposes the implementation of portable, disposable biosensors exploiting an enzymatic recognition for the detection of spermine and spermidine in simulated and eventually real biological matrices. Biosensors are manufactured by using innovative techniques (Additive manufacturing), while recognition interfaces will be decorated with dedicated enzymes (oxydases) and optimized to impart a performance suited to the polyamines detection at the physiologic and supraphysiologic levels.    

Methodologies and techniques

It is planned the fabrication of SPEs and OECTs by rapid prototyping approaches, such as aerosol jet printing, inkjet printing, from liquid precursors (inks). Recognition interfaces (i.e. the gate electrode for OECTs and the working electrode for SPEs) will be coated by enzymes fixed using natural (e.g. fibroin) and synthetic (e.g. nafion) polymeric matrices.

Spectrophotometry will be employed for the optimization of functionalization in terms of effective amount of enzyme to detect polyamines in the desired concentration window.

The sensing response from SPEs will be assessed by electrochemical methods (e.g. Electyrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, Cyclic Voltammetry) while standard electrical measurements for transistor characterization will address the OECTs sensing response.