Impedimetric Evaluation of Bovine Serum Albumin Bioadhesion to A Gold Electrode

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) can be used to analyze protein binding to a gold electrode surface. Analysis of the protein fouling on the surface of a biosensor is critical for accurate detection of biological molecules. The main purpose of developing this biosensor is to allow for the integration of blood testing in breast cancer detection. Blood sampling would allow for earlier detection and therefore drastically increase the survival rate of breast cancer. EIS provides the binding kinetics of bovine serum albumin (BSA), the bovine equivalent of the protein in human blood that binds first to foreign bodies. EIS functions by sending a small AC perturbance at a specific frequency through the solution at its formal DC potential. The resulting current can then be used in calculating the impedance value at that particular frequency. Analyzing the resulting impedance plots we can determine the level and rate of binding to the electrode surface. Research is focused on understanding the effects of varying the BSA concentration as well as electrode type, a rotating disk electrode versus a wire of equal surface area. The research will aid in discriminating protein fouling from the desired antibody-antigen binding that occurs on the biosensor surface. Along with performing experimental research on the biosensor, the data collected will be applied to a mathematical model to describe the mode of surface fouling. In summation, the research will advance the development of biosensors and will ultimately be responsible for early detection of diseases and the saving of lives.