Early-warning electrochemical biosensor system for environmental monitoring based on enzyme inhibition

Potentiometric and conductometric biosensors based on immobilised cholinesterases have been developed. Detection of some organophosphorous pesticides (methyl parathion, methyl paraoxon, ethyl paraoxon, trichlorphon, diisopropyl fluorophosphates) and carbamate pesticide (carbofuran) have been realised through enzyme inhibition mechanisms. Comparison of sensitivity of the biosensor systems developed with that of traditional analytical techniques (high performance liquid chromatography and Lumistox test based on Vibrio fischeri luminescent bacteria) has shown that biosensor measuring procedures are well suited for fast environmental control. Analytical characteristics of the systems created, their advantages and shortcomings are discussed. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.