Biomimetic Approach to the Design of Selective Oxoanion Receptors for Use in Membrane-Based Potentiometric Sensors

The need to selectively recognize and complex ions and molecules is common in many areas of science and industry. Nature’s ability to selectively detect or sense specific compounds in a variety of ways and under many different conditions has long been the source of inspiration in the application and development of recognition-based chemistry. Biofunctional membranes present one such example where polymeric membranes can be designed with a desired function by using or mimicking natural chemical recognition systems. The components found in living organisms that have selective recognition features (i.e., proteins, enzymes, membrane systems, sensory neurons, etc.) have been the subject of much intense study. The rapid, selective, and sensitive response of natural sensory systems that employ recognition chemistry can serve as a model in the development of biosensors. This includes mimicking natural receptors,1 antibiotics,2,3 and even olfactory membranes4 to accomplish desired tasks. One group has successfully immobilized double-helical DNA directly onto an electrode surface and obtained a biosensor that responded selectively to DNA-binding substances (via intercalation) as well as to magnesium ion.5 The applications which await the development of novel biosensors cover a wide range of disciplines, including environmental, medical, industrial, and other venues of research