Development of polymer-based sensors for biological applications

Abstract

The emergent interest in the detection of biomolecules aimed at several medical and biotechnological applications has enabled the development and growth of a new strand in the field of sensors and biosensors. Among biosensors, the immunosensors have been developed for the detection of biomolecules produced by immunological response of the organism in the presence of foreign bodies, such as a microorganism or tumors. Advances in molecular biology have enabled the correlation between certain molecules with specific tumors. Such molecules are known as tumor markers, or biomarkers. An early diagnosis has a great relevance to enhance therapeutic effectiveness. In this context, the present project aims to develop nanostructured sensor platforms to detect biomarkers. The development of these biosensors includes several steps: study of nanostructures films, according to synergy between components; modification of the electrodes with the films and efficient immobilization of biomolecules (probes); characterization of nanostructured films and the immobilization procedure; application of modified devices for the detection of biomarkers of interest (targets). The project development and internship period will give the student the opportunity to gain expertise in biomolecules immobilization for the development of biosensors, in order to foment and complement our current scientific studies at Embrapa Instrumentation (Brazil). (AU)