Nano- and microelectrochemical biosensors for determining blood glucose

Abstract

Blood glucose analysis is currently an important issue both for ordinary people wishing to monitor their health and for patients suffering from various diseases, especially diabetes mellitus. This chapter considers nano- and microsized devices based on biological receptors for glucose level measurements. As attention is largely paid to non-invasive techniques, we also touch upon the existing glucose assays for other fluids of the organism that require no skin-cover integrity to be disturbed. We present data on the development of continuous blood glucose level monitoring to provide a true picture of glycemic changes over large periods of time. The advantages and limitations of using enzyme electrochemical biosensors for glucose detection are discussed. A part of the work deals with specific features of using carbon and metal nanoparticles in biosensors to improve their properties. The current fundamental research in the development of biosensors and available commercial devices is also discussed.