1. ^aBiological Monitoring and Modeling Group, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
2. ^bInterfacial and Nanoscale Science Facility, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
3. ^cDepartment of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA

Correspondence: Dr. Charles A. Timchalk, Biological Monitoring and Modeling Group, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, MSIN: P7-59, 902 Battelle Blvd., Richland, WA 99352, USA. Tel.: +1 509 376 0434; Fax: +1 509 376-9064; E-mail: charles.timchalk@pnl.gov

Received 21 February 2008; Revised 30 July 2008; Accepted 23 September 2008; Published online 19 November 2008.

Abstract

The coupling of dosimetry measurements and modeling represents a promising strategy for deciphering the relationship between chemical exposure and disease outcome. To support the development and implementation of biological monitoring programs, quantitative technologies for measuring xenobiotic exposure are needed. The development of portable nanotechnology-based electrochemical (EC) sensors has the potential to meet the needs for low cost, rapid, high-throughput, and ultrasensitive detectors for biomonitoring an array of chemical markers. Highly selective EC sensors capable of pM sensitivity, high-throughput and low sample requirements (<50 l) are discussed. These portable analytical systems have many advantages over currently available technologies, thus potentially representing the next generation of biomonitoring analyzers. This paper highlights research focused on the development of field-deployable analytical instruments based on EC detection. Background information and a general overview of EC detection methods and integrated use of nanomaterials in the development of these sensors are provided. New developments in EC sensors using various types of screen-printed electrodes, integrated nanomaterials, and immunoassays are presented. Recent applications of EC sensors for assessing exposure to pesticides or detecting biomarkers of disease are highlighted to demonstrate the ability to monitor chemical metabolites, enzyme activity, or protein biomarkers of disease. In addition, future considerations and opportunities for advancing the use of EC platforms for dosimetric studies are discussed.