Controllable radical polymerization of TEMPO redox for stable and sensitive enzyme electrode interface

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Enzyme electrode construction is fundamental for biosensor development.
• Controlling electron transfer and mediators on electrode surfaces is crucial for biosensor stability and sensitivity.
• Existing methods face challenges in precise control of the electron transfer interface.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for growing stable 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) polymer as an electron mediator on enzyme surfaces.
• To enhance the stability and sensitivity of enzyme-based biosensors.
• To provide a platform for wearable and implantable biochemical sensors.

Main Methods:

• Controllable free radical polymerization of TEMPO polymer on enzyme surfaces.
• Characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy.
• Electrochemical methods to evaluate performance and stability.
• Surface analysis including electrode coverage and static contact angle (SCA).

Main Results:

• TEMPO-polymer modified enzyme electrodes exhibited uniform hydrophilic morphology.
• Stable electrochemical performance and high sensitivity for glucose detection were achieved.
• The biosensor demonstrated excellent use, storage, and inter-batch sensing stability.

Conclusions:

• Controllable radical polymerization of TEMPO offers a precise method for constructing stable enzyme electrodes.
• The developed biosensor shows promise for reliable glucose monitoring in artificial sweat and serum.
• This technique provides a vital platform for advanced wearable and implantable biochemical sensors.