Biosensors: basic features and application for fatty acid-binding protein, an early plasma marker of myocardial injury

Biosensors, especially immunosensors, are of great value for use in a clinical setting, since these are based on antigen–antibody reactions which are highly sensitive and specific. Furthermore, it becomes more and more important to measure specific compounds in biological matrices, such as blood or plasma, in a fast continuous manner. Biosensors are therefore suitable for application in high throughput systems. Until now only enzyme-biosensors have been developed for such systems. Continuous measurement of proteins could be established by use of the principle of displacement. This mini-review also presents the current status of biosensors for fatty acid-binding protein (FABP), a protein which is released very rapidly into the bloodstream after myocardial injury, and proven applicable as a plasma marker for acute myocardial injury. The various types of immunosensors for FABP are described, including a recently developed displacement sensor for this protein. The latter allows continuous measurement of FABP for future use in a bedside monitoring device.