Evaluation of polypyrrole-graphene composite in the immobilization of enzymes and its application as a biosensor for neurotransmitters

Abstract

In this research project, the immobilization of laccase enzyme using polypyrrole-graphene composite will be evaluated employing the electrocodeposition method. The method has the benefit of depositing all components simultaneously, simple and fast. The biosensor proposed will be applied on neurotransmitters determination, in special dopamine. Neurotransmitters are extremely important for our organisms, acting on nervous system, being related to very recurrent diseases. The dopamine is deeply linked to illness like Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia and depression. Thus, the graphene, one allotrope recently discovered from the graphite, will be used in the biosensor preparation by their high electrical conductivity properties and polypyrrole will be employed because it's a stable conductive polymer. Furthermore, synergism of polypyrrole-graphene eliminates the use of linker agents, improving the biosensor applicability and sensitivity. (AU)