A yeast biosensor for glucose determination.

A yeast potentiometric biosensor for glucose determination is described. After induction of glycolytic enzyme synthesis a cell suspension of the yeast Hansenula anomala is retained in calcium alginate gel on the surface of a glass electrode. This biosensor gives a Nernstian response in glucose concentration of 5 x 10(-4)-5 x 10(-3) mol/l with a response time of 5 min and a life-time of at least 2 months. Mannose and fructose are the only significantly interfering substances. The biosensor was used for measurement of glucose concentration in urine with results comparable to those obtained by a photometric enzymatic method.