Nanostructuring carbon fibre probes for use in central venous catheters

• Describes a novel approach to monitoring the condition of an intravascular access line.
• Demonstrates a simple and novel voltammetric approach to pH sensing.
• Exploits electrode modification to enhance the electrode response.
• Addresses a pressing clinical need for which there are no technological solutions.
• Provides options for generic adaptation to other pH sensing contexts.
• Validated in whole blood samples.

A carbon fibre probe is described which utilises the oxidation of an endogenous biomarker to provide diagnostic information on the condition of intravascular access lines. The probe surface was modified through anodic oxidation to provide a high selectivity towards urate which was used as a redox probe through which the pH could be determined. A Nernstian response (−60 mV/pH) was obtained which was free from the interference of other redox species common to biofluids. The electroanalytical performance of the probe has been optimised and the applicability of the approach demonstrated through testing the responses in whole blood.

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