Biosensoreiden

Biosensors are analytical devices that convert a biological response into a measurable signal. They combine a biorecognition element with a transducer that converts the biological interaction into an electrical, optical, or thermal output. Common biorecognition elements include enzymes, antibodies, nucleic acids, and whole cells, each providing selectivity for a target molecule or class of molecules. The transducer types determine how the signal is read: electrochemical transducers measure current, voltage, or impedance; optical transducers monitor changes in color, light emission, or refractive index; piezoelectric and other mass-sensitive transducers detect changes in mass at the surface; thermal sensors track heat changes associated with reactions.

Biosensors are used in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial process control. They enable applications such as glucose sensors for diabetes management, rapid tests for infectious diseases, detection of pollutants and toxins, and monitoring of contaminants in food and water. DNA biosensors and aptamer-based sensors extend detection to non-protein targets, while immunosensors exploit antibody–antigen interactions for high specificity.

Advantages of biosensors include rapid results, portability, and potential for point-of-care testing and continuous monitoring. Challenges involve stability and reproducibility of biological elements, fouling and interference from complex samples, and cost and regulatory hurdles. Ongoing research aims to improve biorecognition stability, develop robust surface chemistries, and integrate biosensors with microfluidics and wireless reporting to enable multiplexed, real-time sensing in diverse settings.