Acronym: BIONMEM

Project Code: PN-III-P1-1.1-PD-2021-0319

Project Director: Dr. Anca Aldea

Project Type: National

Project framework program: P1 - Development of the national CD system - Human resources - Postdoctoral research projects (PD)

Funded by: Executive Unit for Financing Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation, UEFISCDI

Contractor: National Research and Development Institute for Materials Physics

Status: In progress

Start date: 01.04.2022

End Date: 31.03.2024

The goal of this project is the development of bioinspired membranes for the incorporation of ionophores able to specifically detect relevant ions. These membranes will be immobilized at electrodes surface for the development of bio-analytical devices for real-time monitoring of biomarker electrolytes in biological media by electrochemical methods. The detection of sodium, potassium and chloride ions in sweat is focused, yet the possibility to extend the working principle to their detection in other relevant biological media or to detection of some other electrolytes is envisioned. Sodium, potassium and chloride are proposed due to their frequent involvement in a large range of biochemical process. Immobilization in bio-inspired membranes form bilipidic, liposomes or hydrogel layers ensures the functional conformation/structure of the ionophore and, on the other hand the increased biocompatibility of the device at epidermal level.
The flexibility of these sensors will be achieved by using electrospun polymeric fibers that ensure the nanostructuring of the electrode surface and a significant increase of its electroactive area, but also of its sensitivity. Studies to determine the influence of sweat interferences on the sensor response and biocompatibility in epidermal cell cultures will be performed. Nonetheless, the adaptability of this type of membranes will be demonstrated by applications of the device for detection of ions in serum and cellular culture media.