Inhibition-Based Biosensor Arrays Using Hairy Particles with Immobilized Enzymes for Detection of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Leonid Ionov; Privatdozentin Dr. Alla Synytska
• Subject Area: Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: since 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 444275765

During the first funding period, we developed a novel strategy for the design of electrochemical biosensors based on hybrid core-shell non-conductive and conductive particles functionalized with polymer brushes containing immobilized enzymes. This approach offers several key advantages: (i) high enzyme loading and preserved activity, (ii) the possibility of enzyme quantification, (iii) increased sensitivity and low detection limits, (iv) efficient bioelectrocatalysis at the electrode surface, and (v) versatile electrode surface modification. The aim of the second funding period is to apply this method to fabricate an array of inhibition-based biosensors for the detection of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs—such as diclofenac, ibuprofen, and aspirin—are widely used for pain relief and inflammation control in both human and veterinary medicine, but their presence in wastewater poses significant environmental concerns due to their potential ecotoxicity. To enable detection at very low concentrations, we will employ inhibition-based sensing rather than direct detection. By using a diverse array of colloidal particles carrying different enzymes and polymer brushes, we can achieve a distinct inhibition pattern—or "molecular imprint"—for each analyte. This will enable not only the detection but also the quantification of individual NSAIDs in complex mixtures.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants