New Fluorescence-Based Detection of pH, CO2 and O2

This New Fluorescence-based optical Biosensor from Harvard Apparatus represents a technology in the measurement of typical blood gas parameters in tissue engineering, organ perfusion and general physiology applications.

Features include:
• More accurate measurements than traditional methods
• Sensitive sensors are also rugged for long life
• No electrolytes required
• Completely sterilizable sensors
• USP Class VI-certified sensors are shipped pre-calibrated
• Minimal chemical degradation means usage life and infrequent recalibration

In contrast to traditional ion-sensitive chemosensors, these optical biosensors use a controlled optical source that emits light signals at specified frequencies which excite an ion-specific sensor spot in contact with the test medium.

Changes in the parameter of interest are reported as a proportional change in some characteristic (intensity, phase shift, etc.) of the fluorescence.

Because they are inherently self-referencing, this detection technology eliminates the potential for measurement error arising from changes in sample properties (i.e. flow rate, viscosity, etc.) over the duration of an experiment. This ensures stable, drift-free calibration and hence reliable measurements throughout the lifespan of a sensing element.

Unlike polarographic oxygen electrodes, this technology is non ion-consumptive. These easy-to-use biosensors are free of the maintenance complications inherent in traditional chemosensing: requiring only cleaning and dry storage, there is no need for electrolyte, membrane changes, or pre-polarization of the electrode amplifier.