Incani V., Danumah C., Boluk Y.
University of Alberta, CA
Keywords: biosensing, nanocomposites, nanocrystalline cellulose
The development of composite materials is getting increased interest, as they can be a way to achieve adequate sensitivity and stability for biosensors. In this work, we describe the use of a composite material made of a renewable source and metallic nanoparticles for biosensing applications. NCC is a product isolated from natural cellulose fibers, which is of approx. 100 nm long and 10 nm wide in size. We augmented the surface area and chemical affinity of NCC by optimally dressing it with gold nanoparticles (AuNP). The deposition of AuNP on NCC is controlled by using cationic Polyethylenimine (PEI). AuNPs were thio-funtionalized prior to enzyme immobilization and the enzyme (glucose oxidase) was conjugated on the composite by carbodiimide (EDC)/NHS coupling. Using UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy in the presence of a specific substrate monitored the activity of the immobilized enzymes, and its efficiency was compared with free form. Our results using FT-IR and SEM show that thiol-AuNPs were attached to the surface of NCC. The enzyme activity was measured and quantified using different kit assays and proved that the enzyme was attached to the composite and maintained its activity
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2012: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 13 - 16
Industry sector: Medical & Biotech
Topics: Diagnostics & Bioimaging, Sensors - Chemical, Physical & Bio
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6276-9