Direct detection of low-concentration NO in physiological solutions by a new GaAs-based sensor

Deng Guo Wu, David Cahen, Peter Graf, Ron Naaman, Abraham Nitzan, Dmitry Shvarts

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

96 Scopus citations

Abstract

Nitric oxide (NO) acts as a signal molecule in the nervous system, as a defense against infections, as a regulator of blood pressure, and as a gate keeper of blood flow to different organs. In vivo, it is thought to have a lifetime of a few seconds. Therefore, its direct detection at low concentrations is difficult. We report on a new type of hybrid, organic-semiconductor, electronic sensor that makes detection of nitric oxide in physiological solution possible. The mode of action of the device is described to explain how its electrical resistivity changes as a result of NO binding to a layer of native hemin molecules. These molecules are self-assembled on a GaAs surface to which they are attached through a carboxylate binding group. The new sensor provides a fast and simple method for directly detecting NO at concentrations down to 1 μM in physiological aqueous (pH=7.4) solution at room temperature.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1743-1749
Number of pages7
JournalChemistry - A European Journal
Volume7
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - 17 Apr 2001
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Biosensors
  • Chemoselectivity
  • Gallium arsenide
  • Nitrogen oxides
  • Porphyrinoids
  • Semiconductors

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