POSSIBILITIES FOR BIOSENSORS BASED ON NEURORECEPTORS

Abstract

The incorporation of a protein that selectively binds the compound to be measured is one of the most efficient methods for imparting selectivity into the design of biosensors. Enzymes and immunoproteins, such as antibodies, have been widely studied so far. Neuroreceptors constitute another class of proteins which very selectively bind certain compounds and which in principle can be used to develop biosensors for the detection of specific drugs, potent toxins, or other compounds. Since neuroreceptors in their natural environment are found in cell membranes, the first major task is to separate the receptor protein from the cell, while retaining binding specificity, in large enough quantities to enable reconstitution, immobilization, and biosensor readout studies to be carried out. The acetylcholine receptor and the gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) receptor are being intensely studied at present.