Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering

Graduate Exam Abstract

Anita Karegar
M.S. Final
Mar 08, 2007, 1:45pm
Clark C361
Electrochemical Multi-analyte Biosensor Array for Neurotransmitter Detection
Abstract: Advancing our understanding of how the central nervous system (CNS) works under specific conditions will require real-time, simultaneous detection of a number of key signaling molecules. A variety of neurotransmitter molecules have been identified that provide excitatory and inhibitory functions in vertebrates. Because of their effect on neurotransmission, vasodilatation and immune response, neurotransmitters play an important role in physiology, pathology, and pharmacology, which has stimulated extensive research interest. Neurotransmitters proven to be most important to basic researchers and clinical practitioners include serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), nitric oxide (NO) and GABA. The long term goal of proposed research is to create electrochemical electrode based sensor array integrated with on-chip signal processing and storage circuits to allow multi-analyte analysis with high spatial and temporal resolutions in real-time. This thesis focuses on short term goal of designing and verifying the basic sensor array design based on platinum electrode and characterizing the design in terms selectivity, sensitivity, and in-vitro compatibility. Design and characterization of preamplifier part of analog circuitry is also covered in this research.
Adviser: Dr. Tom Chen
Co-Adviser:
Non-ECE Member: Dr. Charles Henry
Member 3: Dr. Stuart Tobet
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