In a groundbreaking development, researchers have created a novel biosensor that could revolutionize the way we monitor neurotransmitters, with potential implications for the energy sector’s pursuit of advanced, bio-inspired technologies. The study, led by Bo Xiao from the Hunan Institute of Advanced Sensing and Information Technology at Xiangtan University in China, introduces an electrically resettable field-effect transistor (FET) biosensor that promises continuous and multiplexed detection of neurotransmitters.
The biosensor, detailed in the journal Advanced Science (translated as Advanced Science), utilizes semiconducting carbon nanotube (CNT) films and pH-sensitive aptamers to capture target neurotransmitters. What sets this innovation apart is its ability to modulate and recover the sensor interface through tuning the potential of on-chip palladium electrodes, enabling in situ pH modulation and recovery. This feature addresses a longstanding challenge in biosensor technology: poor reusability due to difficulties in probe-target separation.
“Our biosensor demonstrates exceptional sensitivity, with femtomolar-level detection limits, high selectivity, and excellent reusability over ten reuse cycles,” Xiao explained. The sensor’s remarkable capabilities were further validated through in vitro detection, where it successfully identified multiple neurotransmitters—dopamine, serotonin, histamine, and glutamate—in complex biological samples. The integration of microfluidic techniques enhanced the sensor’s reliability and repeatability, reducing non-specific adsorption and cross-reactivity.
The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate applications in neuroscience. The energy sector, particularly in the realm of bio-inspired technologies, could benefit significantly from this advancement. The ability to continuously and accurately monitor neurotransmitters could pave the way for developing more efficient and responsive bio-sensors and bio-actuators, which are crucial for energy harvesting and storage systems that mimic biological processes.
Moreover, the resettable nature of the biosensor opens up new possibilities for long-term, real-time monitoring in various environments, including industrial settings. This could lead to the development of more robust and adaptable energy systems that can respond dynamically to changing conditions.
As Bo Xiao noted, “The resettable CNT FET biosensor array holds significant promise for advancing the monitoring of neurotransmitter dynamics, serving as a powerful tool for the early diagnosis and management of neurological disorders.” The potential for commercial impact is substantial, with applications ranging from medical diagnostics to advanced energy technologies.
This research not only pushes the boundaries of biosensor technology but also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bridging the gap between neuroscience, materials science, and energy technology, this innovation could inspire further developments in the field, ultimately leading to more sustainable and efficient energy solutions.