• Ultramicroelectrodes and Sensors
• Fast Scan Voltammetry
• EC/MS-Electrochemistry on-line with Mass Spectrometry

The ultimate goal is real time measurements of adenosine released by the heart with an in vivo sensor, as a predictive measure of heart attacks. The miniaturized sensor can also be used to measure adenosine released from single heart cells. The information from single cell experiments can clarify messenger role of adenosine in signaling energy stress. In addition we are building on this work for design of a DNA sensor. The goal is to detect genetic defects. Measurement methods include amperommetry and fast scan voltammetry.

We design and fabricate micro and nanometer sized surfaces. Molecular architecture of the surfaces can be designed for specific applications through control of surface chemistry. Control of molecular recognition is brought about by selective interactions with analyte. Characterization includes surface methods and the use of electrochemical techniques. To optimize structure, different nanostructures are being fabricated.

The goal is to provide fast instrumental methods of signal acquisition for high temporal and spatial resolution with applications ranging from analysis to surface characterization.

Of interest is the detection and characterization of the initial intermediates and products formed in a reaction, especially of biological relevance, and the chemical characterization of the reaction products, especially in the presence of common nucleophiles and electrophiles as model systems. Generation of radicals is of key importance in organic toxicity and in drug action. Their on-line detection by EC/MS is possible. The EC/MS is being developed for the characterization of biological redox reactions such as DNA interactions with carcinogens.

Vistor Number since April 10, 2000