Researcher(s)
- Giuliana Cioffi, Material Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- David Martin, Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware
Abstract
The synthesis and optimization of biosensors for detecting target analytes in biological and chemical reactions are crucial for advancing scientific research, particularly in the biopharmaceutical field. This project focuses on the development of sensors as bioelectrode devices capable of transmitting and receiving electronic signals in reaction mixtures. These devices are coated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), a conductive, biocompatible, and stable conjugated polymer. The PEDOT-based devices are designed to respond to target proteins (Protein A) and antibodies (Immunoglobulin G, IgG). While their functionality in controlled mixtures has been established, this research aims to enhance the efficacy and stability of these devices with the use of additional polymers.
To achieve this, the electrochemical characteristics of different samples deposited on two types of screen-printed electrodes (SPEs), 220BT and 220AT, at varying charge densities were analyzed. Three samples were prepared and electrochemically deposited on the electrode surfaces. Initially, a bare electrode was tested to serve as a reference. One sample was made using LiClO4 and EDOT-maleimide, labeled as “no polymer” in the data. Another sample was made of LiClO4, EDOT-maleimide, and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Lastly, a sample was made using LiClO4, EDOT-maleimide, and poly (methyl methacrylate/methacrylic acid) [80:20] (PMMA/MAA). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to analyze the effect of the polymers on the characteristics of the biosensor. These methods demonstrated that the sample containing PEG provided an improvement to the sensor’s properties. The resulting data provides valuable insights into the performance of biosensors in biochemical processes.