Development and analytical application of an uric acid biosensor using an uricase-immobilized eggshell membrane

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Biosensor Technology
• Enzyme Immobilization

Background:

• Uric acid is a key biomarker for several diseases, necessitating accurate detection methods.
• Existing uric acid detection methods can be complex or costly.
• Development of efficient and cost-effective biosensors is crucial for clinical diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel uric acid biosensor.
• To utilize eggshell membrane as a support for uricase immobilization.
• To evaluate the performance and stability of the fabricated biosensor.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a biosensor using uricase-immobilized eggshell membrane and an oxygen electrode.
• Monitoring dissolved oxygen depletion due to enzymatic uric acid oxidation.
• Optimization of enzyme loading, pH, temperature, and buffer concentration.
• Scanning electron microscopy for microstructure analysis.

Main Results:

• The biosensor demonstrated a linear response range of 4.0-640 µM with a detection limit of 2.0 µM.
• Fast response time (<100 s) and good repeatability (RSD 3.1%).
• Excellent stability (shelf-life ≥ 3 months) and selectivity against common interferents.
• Successful application in human serum and urine samples, showing good agreement with commercial assays.

Conclusions:

• The uricase-immobilized eggshell membrane biosensor is a promising tool for uric acid determination.
• The biosensor offers high sensitivity, stability, and selectivity.
• This approach provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative for uric acid analysis in clinical settings.