Investigation of GOx Stability in a Chitosan Matrix: Applications for Enzymatic Electrodes

Abstract

In this study, we designed a new biosensing membrane for the development of an electrochemical glucose biosensor. To proceed, we used a chitosan-based hydrogel that entraps glucose oxidase enzyme (GOx), and we crosslinked the whole matrix using glutaraldehyde, which is known for its quick and reactive crosslinking behavior. Then, the stability of the designed biosensors was investigated over time, according to different storage conditions (in PBS solution at temperatures of 4 °C and 37 °C and in the presence or absence of glucose). In some specific conditions, we found that our biosensor is capable of maintaining its stability for more than six months of storage. We also included catalase to protect the biosensing membranes from the enzymatic reaction by-products (e.g., hydrogen peroxide). This design protects the biocatalytic activity of GOx and enhances the lifetime of the biosensor.