Fluorometric enzymatic autoindicating biosensor for H2O2 determination based on modified catalase.

Our general aim is to develop reversible optical biosensors which can be used for continuous monitoring. In this paper we propose a biosensor for H(2)O(2) determination. The bioreceptor is catalase (Cat) previously linked to a Ruthenium O(2)-sensitive fluorophore (Cat-Ru). It is based on the reversible H(2)O(2) disproportionation into O(2) and H(2)O. First, the fluorescent-enzymatic system was optimized for batch measurements (linear response ranges from 1×10(-4) to, at least, 1×10(-3) M H(2)O(2)). Because of its reversibility, the same enzyme aliquot can be used for performing the whole calibration step (and the subsequent determination). Secondly, the optical sensor was prepared by Cat-Ru immobilization in a polyacrylamide film. The sensor permits H(2)O(2) determination in a similar concentration range as in batch mode and can be used during at least 1 month. A mathematical model has also been developed which permits the effect of the experimental parameters to predict. The model also explains the sensor behavior if different fluorophores are used, and shows that the analytical signal only slightly depends on the initial concentration of the O(2) in the sample. Finally an alternative sensor is presented based on a commercially available O(2) fluorescence sensor linked to catalase. This system gives an analytical behavior similar to that shown for the Cat-Ru sensor.