Fabrication and Characterization of a Tunable Microelectrode Array Probe for Simultaneous Multiplexed Electrochemical...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Individually addressable microelectrode arrays (MEAs) are crucial for localized electrochemical detection of multiple analytes.
• Existing MEA fabrication methods can be costly and lack flexibility in electrode design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, low-cost, and tunable methodology for fabricating microelectrode arrays (MEAs).
• To demonstrate the versatility of the fabrication method in controlling electrode number, arrangement, and spacing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 3D printed support assembly to precisely position electrode wires.
• Employed a mold and epoxy resin to encapsulate and seal the electrodes.
• Applied mechanical polishing to expose microelectrode surfaces.
• Characterized MEAs using electrochemical methods, optical microscopy, and electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated MEAs with controllable electrode configurations (dual-disk, 4-, 5-, and 7-electrode probes).
• Validated electrode integrity, surface quality, and insulation using electrochemical and microscopic techniques.
• Demonstrated simultaneous detection of adenosine triphosphate and dopamine using electrochemical aptamer-based sensors on the fabricated MEAs.

Conclusions:

• The developed fabrication method offers a cost-effective and adaptable approach for creating customized MEAs.
• The fabricated MEAs are suitable for simultaneous multi-analyte detection in complex biological samples.
• This technology has potential applications in scanning electrochemical microscopy and biosensing.