Electrochemical detection of oligonucleotides using polypyrroles

Abstract

In this review, we present literature describing the use of polypyrroles as an alternative to traditional surface modification methods for detecting oligonucleotides. The methodology used to immobilize and differentiate analytes on conducting surfaces as well as the resulting changes in the electrochemical properties of the polypyrrole-coated-electrodes will be discussed. Through the electropolymerization process, an applied potential permits radical cation propagation to produce doped electroactive polymers. The electrochemical properties exhibited by polypyrroles have been exploited for the detection and quantification of analytes in multiple disciplines. Taking advantage of the stability and excellent adhesive properties on electrode surfaces, functionalization of polypyrroles allows binding of oligonucleotide probes and thus detection of DNA targets.

Keywords

• Pyrrole
• Electropolymerization
• Polypyrroles
• Oligonucleotides
• DNA
• Sensors