MICROFABRICATED ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSOR FOR THE DETECTION OF RADIATION-INDUCED DNA-DAMAGE

An electrochemical biosensor protocol for the detection of radiation-i nduced DNA damage is described, The procedure employs a dsDNA-coated s creen-printed electrode and relies on changes in the guanine-DNA oxida tion signal upon exposure to ultraviolet radiation, The decreased sign al is ascribed primarily to conformational changes in the DNA and to t he photoconversion of the guanine-DNA moiety to a nonelectroactive mon omeric base product. Factors influencing the response of these microfa bricated DNA sensors, such as irradiation time, wavelength, and distan ce, are explored, and future prospects are discussed, Similar results are given for the use of bare strip electrodes in connection with irra diated DNA solutions.