Electrophoresis, Vol.32, No.8, 832-837, 2011
In-channel amperometric detection for microchip electrophoresis using a wireless isolated potentiostat
The combination of microchip electrophoresis with amperometric detection leads to a number of analytical challenges that are associated with isolating the detector from the high voltages used for the separation. While methods such as end-channel alignment and the use of decouplers have been employed, they have limitations. A less common method has been to utilize an electrically isolated potentiostat. This approach allows placement of the working electrode directly in the separation channel without using a decoupler. This paper explores the use of microchip electrophoresis and electrochemical detection with an electrically isolated potentiostat for the separation and in-channel detection of several biologically important anions. The separation employed negative polarity voltages and tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (as a buffer modifier) for the separation of nitrite (NO2-), glutathione, ascorbic acid, and tyrosine. A half-wave potential shift of approximately negative 500 mV was observed for NO2- and H2O2 standards in the in-channel configuration compared to end-channel. Higher separation efficiencies were observed for both NO2- and H2O2 with the in-channel detection configuration. The limits of detection were approximately two-fold lower and the sensitivity was approximately two-fold higher for in-channel detection of nitrite when compared to end-channel. The application of this microfluidic device for the separation and detection of biomarkers related to oxidative stress is described.
Keywords:Electrically isolated potentiostat;In-channel electrochemical detection;Microchip electrophoresis;Peroxynitrite;Reactive nitrogen species