This research project, supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, focusses on the development of quinoprotein enzyme based biosensors for the analysis of histamine, dopamine, and alcohols. Professors Tachikawa of Jackson State University and Davidson of The University of Mississippi Medical Center and their students will study the preparation and characterization of biosensors using the enzymes methylamine dehydrogenase, aromatic amine dehydrogenase, and methanol dehydrogenase. Electrochemical methods, electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance measurements, and Raman spectroscopy will be used to characterize the structure and function of these enzyme based biosensors. This project is unique in using oxygen and NAD independent redox enzymes in biosensors and in the long-term medical applications are anticipated. This project will examine the utility of developing enzyme based biosensors that use oxygen and NA independent quinoprotein enzymes. Professors Tachikawa of Jackson State University and Davidson of The University of Mississippi Medical Center will study the construction and characterization of these biosensors with their students. A broad, interdisciplinary approach to this project will involve use of electrochemical techniques, quartz crystal microbalance measurements, and Raman spectroscopy to determine the structure and properties of these new biosensors. Long-term goals focus on developing new applications for quantitative and qualitative analysis in medicine.
