A highly stable and selective biosensor using modified nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)

Abstract

Methods for developing stable, sensitive and selective bilayer lipid membrane (BLM)-based biosensors are discussed. Stable BLMs were formed over micromachined polyimide apertures. Selective sensors were made by incorporating nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) modified with bispecific antibodies (BsAbs). When two BsAbs, attached to one nAChR, encounter antigen (Ag), channels are blocked. Sensitivity to single Ag molecules would be possible by monitoring closure of individual nAChRs. © 1995.