Biosensors
Biosensors
Biosensors (pronunciation: /ˈbaɪoʊˌsɛnsər/) are analytical devices used to provide quantitative or semi-quantitative analytical information using a biological recognition element.
Etymology
The term "biosensor" is derived from the Greek words "bios" meaning life and "sensor" which is derived from the Latin word "sensus" meaning to perceive or feel.
Definition
A biosensor is a device that uses biological molecules, usually enzymes or antibodies, to detect the presence of chemicals in the body, such as glucose or alcohol. The biological molecules react with the chemical being tested for, and the biosensor converts this reaction into an electrical signal that can be measured and analyzed.
Types of Biosensors
There are several types of biosensors, including:
- Enzyme-based Biosensors: These biosensors use enzymes as the biological recognition element. The enzyme reacts with the target chemical, and this reaction is converted into an electrical signal by the biosensor.
- Antibody-based Biosensors: These biosensors use antibodies as the biological recognition element. The antibody binds to the target chemical, and this binding is converted into an electrical signal by the biosensor.
- Nucleic Acid-based Biosensors: These biosensors use nucleic acids as the biological recognition element. The nucleic acid binds to the target chemical, and this binding is converted into an electrical signal by the biosensor.
Applications
Biosensors have a wide range of applications in various fields such as:
- Medical Diagnostics: Biosensors are used in medical diagnostics to detect the presence of specific chemicals in the body, such as glucose or alcohol.
- Environmental Monitoring: Biosensors are used in environmental monitoring to detect the presence of pollutants in the environment, such as heavy metals or pesticides.
- Food and Beverage Industry: Biosensors are used in the food and beverage industry to detect the presence of contaminants in food and beverages, such as bacteria or toxins.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biosensors
- Wikipedia's article - Biosensors
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