3D bio-printing-based vascular-microtissue electrochemical biosensor for fish parvalbumin detection

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Biosensor Technology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Fish parvalbumins are allergens requiring sensitive detection methods.
• Existing detection methods can be time-consuming and lack standardization.
• 3D bioprinting offers potential for creating complex biological structures for sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel 3D bio-printed vascular microtissue biosensor for rapid fish parvalbumin detection.
• To enhance sensor performance using modified electrodes and conductive hydrogels.
• To establish a high-throughput and standardized method for biosensor preparation.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a conductive hydrogel bio-ink using gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), polydopamine-modified multi-wall carbon nanotubes (PDA-MWCNT), mast cells, and endothelial cells.
• 3D bioprinting of vascular microtissues using stereolithography.
• Modification of a graphite rod electrode with gold and copper-organic framework (Cu-MOF).
• Immobilization of the 3D bioprinted vascular microtissue onto the modified electrode to create the biosensor.

Main Results:

• The developed biosensor demonstrated a positive correlation between peak current and fish parvalbumin concentration.
• A linear detection range of 0.1–2.5 μg/mL was achieved.
• The standard curve equation was I_DPV(μA) = 31.30 + 5.46 C_PV(μg/mL) with R² = 0.990.
• A low detection limit of 0.065 μg/mL was determined.

Conclusions:

• A biomimetic microtissue sensor for fish parvalbumin detection was successfully constructed using 3D bio-printing.
• The sensor exhibits high sensitivity and a wide linear range, suitable for practical applications.
• This approach offers a promising platform for rapid, standardized, and high-throughput detection of food allergens.