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Ultrasensitive Detection of Biomarkers by Using a Molecular Imprinting Based Capacitive Biosensor
Published on: February 16, 2018
Molecularly imprinted polymers for corticosteroids: analysis of binding selectivity
Claudio Baggiani1, Patrizia Baravalle, Cristina Giovannoli
1Laboratory of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Torino, via Giuria 5, 10125 Torino, Italy. claudio.baggiani@unito.it
Researchers developed novel cortisol-imprinted polymers using diverse monomers, cross-linkers, and solvents. Optimizing these components enhanced the polymers
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Molecular Recognition
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Cortisol detection is crucial for diagnosing various health conditions.
- Developing selective and sensitive materials for steroid hormone analysis remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a library of cortisol-imprinted polymers with tailored selectivity.
- To investigate the influence of functional monomers, cross-linkers, and porogen solvents on polymer performance.
- To understand structural features dictating corticosteroid recognition.
Main Methods:
- Sequential preparation of imprinted polymers using varied chemical components.
- Evaluation of polymer binding affinity and selectivity for cortisol and related steroids.
- Application of Free-Wilson analysis to correlate structural motifs with binding affinity.
Main Results:
- Different polymer compositions yielded distinct selectivity profiles for corticosteroids.
- Optimization of pre-polymerization mixtures significantly improved the recognition of target steroids.
- Free-Wilson analysis provided insights into structural requirements for corticosteroid binding.
Conclusions:
- The choice of functional monomers, cross-linkers, and porogens critically impacts imprinted polymer selectivity.
- Tailored polymer design can enhance molecular recognition capabilities for steroid analysis.
- This study offers a framework for developing advanced materials for corticosteroid detection.
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