A disposable biosensor for the determination of alpha-amylase in human saliva

• DOI: 10.1007/s00604-010-0360-y
• Publication Date: 2010-04-24T13:32:16Z
• Authors: Mika Mahosenaho; Felice Caprio; Laura Micheli; Adama M. Sesay; Giuseppe Palleschi; Vesa Virtanen
• Keywords: Settore CHIM/01 - CHIMICA ANALITICA; Alpha amylase Biomarker Biosensor Saliva Stress; 02 engineering and technology; 0210 nano-technology

A disposable tri-enzymatic biosensor is presented for the determination of α-amylase in human saliva. It is based on the quantity of maltose generated by hydrolysis of maltopentose in the presence of salivary α-amylase. The biosensor is fabricated by co-immobilization of the enzymes α-glucosidase, glucose oxidase, and mutarotase on screen-printed electrodes modified with Prussian Blue. The assay can be performed with a “drop” of sample, this allowing for ease and simplicity. A linear relationship is found for the range from 5 to 250 units per mL, with an LOD of 5 units per mL. The biosensor is stable for at least one month and over this time retains 80% of its original activity. The system was then evaluated for matrix effects of human saliva and compared to a spectrometric method using a commercially available kit.