Sensitivity enhancement for microbial biosensors through cell Self-Coating with polypyrrole

Abstract

The development of amperometric glucose biosensors based on Aspergillus niger is an established method as is the use of conducting polymers (CPs) for improvement of analytical features. The novelty proposed herein consists in the synthesis of polypyrrole (Ppy) in situ, within the cellular membrane/wall for enhancement of electrochemical features of the cells in the context of electroanalytical applications. The process accomplishes a two-fold purpose: (i) it makes use of biocatalysts yielded by the cells without need for enzyme separation and purification; (ii) it involves cellular components, which perform self-coating with Ppy without need for chemical functionalization.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Amperometric glucose detection
• Aspergillus niger
• In situ biosynthesis
• Polypyrrole
• Ppy-microbial biosensor

Additional information

Funding

Financial support through Short-Time Scientific Mission funded by COST Action MP1407 and Akdeniz University Research Funds for the support of this collaborative study.