BioChemPen for a Rapid Analysis of Compounds Supported on Solid Surfaces

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Biosensor Technology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Solid surface analysis often requires complex laboratory equipment.
• Rapid, on-site detection of various analytes is crucial for quality control and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a portable, wireless biosensor device, BioChemPen, for rapid analysis of substances on solid surfaces.
• To demonstrate the versatility of BioChemPen in detecting cleaning agents, biological molecules, and pesticides.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a hydrogel matrix containing enzymes and substrates for chemotransduction.
• Employed a photoresistor as a phototransducer to detect light produced by bioluminescent reactions.
• Integrated a MicroPython PyBoard microcontroller for device operation and cloud data upload.

Main Results:

• Successfully detected hypochlorite cleaning agents on surfaces.
• Quantified adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to assess meat freshness.
• Detected organophosphate pesticides on vegetables with high sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• BioChemPen offers a rapid, portable, and sensitive method for on-site analysis of diverse analytes on solid surfaces.
• The device's hydrogel-based approach is adaptable for various biochemical assays.
• Real-time data upload enables immediate action and monitoring.