Characterization of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers as Novel Materials for Biochemical Sensors

Abstract We study the behavior of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIP) as novel synthetic receptor layers in biochemical sensors. Electropolymerization was used as an easy to implement method for polymer deposition and integrated impedance spectroscopy to monitor MIP behavior towards target molecules. Contrary to what is reported in the literature we consider that it is neither easy nor reliable to attribute the impedance changes to target binding/elution. However, alternative and/or more precise characterization methods are needed to track nano-scale changes in MIPs. Thus we are developing an optical set-up for detection of static deflections on the micro-cantilevers as a result of surface stress induced by changes in MIPs. Using an optical set-up, changes in the deflection of MIP-covered micro-cantilevers when exposed to the target molecules could be measured.