Biomimetic sensor based on hemin/carbon nanotubes/chitosan modified microelectrode for nitric oxide measurement in the brain

A novel biomimetic microsensor for measuring nitric oxide (NO) in the brain in vivo was developed. The sensor consists of hemin and functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes covalently attached to chitosan via the carbodiimide crosslinker EDC followed by chitosan electrodeposition on the surface of carbon fiber microelectrodes. Cyclic voltammetry supported direct electron transfer from the FeIII/FeII couple of hemin to the carbon surface at −0.370 V and −0.305 V vs. Ag/AgCl for cathodic and anodic peaks, respectively. Square wave voltammetry revealed a NO reduction peak at −0.762 V vs. Ag/AgCl that increased linearly with NO concentration between 0.25 and 1 μM. The average sensitivity of the microsensors was 1.72 nA/μM and the limit of detection was 25 nM. Oxygen and hydrogen peroxide reduction peaks were observed at −0.269 V and −0.332 V vs. Ag/AgCl, respectively and no response was observed for other relevant interferents, namely ascorbate, nitrite and dopamine. The microsensor was successfully applied to the measurement of exogenously applied NO in the rat brain in vivo.

► A microsensor for nitric oxide (NO) is designed based on a novel nanocomposite film.
► Cyclic voltammetry shows direct electron transfer from hemin.
► The electrocatalytic reduction of NO provides high sensitivity and selectivity.
► The microsensor is able to resolve NO and oxygen peaks by square wave voltammmetry.
► Measurement of exogenously applied NO in vivo in the rat brain is demonstrated.