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An organic-phase optical phenol biosensor coupling enzymatic oxidation with chemical reduction
Xiao Jun Wu1, Martin M F Choi, Xiao Min Wu
1Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China.
The Analyst
|October 28, 2004
Summary
This study developed a novel optical biosensor for detecting phenol in organic solvents. The biosensor demonstrates stable performance and successful application in real-world samples.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Phenol detection in hydrophobic organic solvents is challenging due to solubility and interference issues.
- Existing methods may lack sensitivity, stability, or applicability in non-aqueous media.
- Development of specialized biosensors is crucial for accurate phenol monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a recyclable amplification optical biosensor for phenol monitoring in hydrophobic organic solvents.
- To immobilize tyrosinase effectively for enhanced stability and biocatalytic activity.
- To evaluate the biosensor's performance, including working range, response time, and operational/shelf life.
Main Methods:
- Tyrosinase immobilization within a poly(vinyl alcohol)-hydroxyethyl carboxymethylcellulose copolymer membrane doped with octadecylsilica particles.
- Construction of the biosensor by co-mixing immobilized tyrosinase with L-ascorbic acid-poly(vinyl alcohol) adduct and an optical oxygen transducer.
- Characterization of the biosensor's response to phenol in hydrophobic organic solvents, assessing stability and interference.
Main Results:
- The biosensor exhibited an amplifying response to phenol with a working range of 0.08-40 mmol dm(-3) in flow mode.
- Stable biocatalytic activity of entrapped tyrosinase was observed, free from o-quinone polymerization interference.
- The biosensor demonstrated a response time of 4-7 minutes, operational lifetime of over 40 assays, and shelf life exceeding 3 months.
- Successful quantification of phenol in commercial ointment samples was achieved.
Conclusions:
- The developed optical biosensor offers a sensitive, stable, and selective method for phenol detection in hydrophobic organic solvents.
- The immobilization strategy ensures robust enzyme activity and extends the biosensor's operational and shelf life.
- This biosensor presents a viable tool for analyzing phenol content in complex matrices like commercial products.