Amperometric biosensor for the determination of histamine in fish samples

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biosensor Technology
• Food Science

Background:

• Histamine accumulation in fish poses a significant food safety risk.
• Accurate and rapid detection methods are crucial for monitoring histamine levels in seafood.
• Existing methods may lack the sensitivity or speed required for routine analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and optimize a highly sensitive bienzymatic biosensor for histamine detection.
• To co-immobilize enzymes onto a novel membrane for enhanced sensor performance.
• To validate the biosensor's applicability in real fish samples.

Main Methods:

• Co-immobilization of diamine oxidase (DOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) using a phase inversion technique.
• Fabrication of the biosensor on screen-printed electrodes with a polysulfone/carbon nanotubes/ferrocene membrane.
• Electrochemical measurements performed in phosphate buffer at pH 8.0 and a low applied potential (-50 mV vs. Ag/AgCl).

Main Results:

• The biosensor demonstrated high sensitivity (1.9×10^7 nAμM⁻¹) and a low limit of detection (1.7×10⁻⁷ M).
• A wide linear detection range (3×10⁻⁷ to 2×10⁻⁵ M) and excellent reproducibility were achieved.
• The biosensor showed high storage stability.
• Good correlation was observed between biosensor results and ELISA for histamine in sardines, mackerel, and greater weever.

Conclusions:

• The developed bienzymatic biosensor is a sensitive, stable, and reproducible tool for histamine quantification.
• This electrochemical approach offers a promising alternative for rapid histamine assessment in fish.
• The biosensor's performance validates its potential for ensuring seafood safety.