[Cellular microbiosensors for methanol and ethanol determination on the basis of pH-sensitive field transistors]

Cellular sensors for methanol and ethanol determination were developed using immobilized mutant cells of methylotrophic yeasts Hansenula polymorpha and Pichia pinus (able to extrude protons in the presence of alcohol) and pH-sensitive field effect transistors (pH-SFETs). The intact cells of yeasts were immobilized in Ca-alginate gel to obtain a biomembrane. The minimal detectable response was obtained to approximately 0.5 mM of methanol and ethanol, a linear dependence of biosensor's response on the logarithmic alcohol concentration was observed in the range from 5 to 100 mM for both types of alcohol. The prospects for application of biosensors to determine alcohols in the analytical practice are discussed.