Cholinesterase Inhibitor Biosensors

This paper describes the partial results of the development of a new biosensor of cholinesterase inhibitors based on biochemical enzymatic reaction with colorimetric evaluation. A biosensor consists of an indicator zone with immobilised enzyme (butyrylcholinesterase), an auxiliary zone with a substrate (butyrylthiocholine) and a chromogenic agent, as well as a zone with colour etalon. The presence of cholinesterase inhibitors is indicated by the fact that there is no discoloration of the chromogenic reagent. A biosensor is suitable for the rapid and simple detection of chemical warfare agents (nerve gases) or industrial pesticides (organophosphates, carbamates) in water and in the air.