| abstract |
An analyte sensor 4 comprises a matrix material 6, 8, a nanoparticle 2 associated with the matrix material, and a signalling molecule 10, 12, 14, 16 associated with the nanoparticle. The nanoparticle or signalling molecule exhibits fluorescence emission intensity as a function of the analyte concentration. The signalling molecules are responsive to various analytes of interest (pH, oxygen, potassium or carbon dioxide), and alter the fluorescence of the nanoparticle with analyte concentration. The nanoparticle may be a quantum dot. The matrix may be a hydrogel. The sensor may comprise a donor chromophore and an acceptor chromophore wherein the donor transfers energy to the acceptor in the presence of an analyte such that it emits fluorescence. The sensor is used to monitor biological analytes. |