Development of an immunosensor for the determination of allergy antibody (IgE) in blood samples

The current work describes the optimisation of a system for measurement of allergy antibodies (IgE) in blood samples using disposable screen-printed c arbon electrode technology and amperometric detection of p-aminophenol, pro duced by alkaline phosphatase, at +300 mV versus Ag/AgCl. The system was pr imarily developed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) prior to ana lysis by screen-printed electrodes. The sensor incorporates the clinically relevant range of IgE in sensitised patients with a detection limit of 0.09 ng ml(-1) IgE. The system is simple, requiring only addition of analyte (s ample) and analysis is complete in 30 min. In addition, it is cost effectiv e and was developed for use as a point of care device, capable of measuring IgE levels in a drop of blood. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights r eserved.