Lab-on-a-chip sensor for point-of-care measurement of manganese exposure

This paper reports on the development of a lab-on-achip (LOC) sensor for rapid electrochemical point-of-care (POC) measurement of biological exposure to manganese (Mn). The sensor was fabricated using an electrodeposited bismuth film as a working electrode, and Ag/AgCl reference and Au auxiliary electrodes. Measurement of Mn was demonstrated in the 0.9 nM - 9 muM range in blood using square wave stripping voltammetry (SWSV). The sensitivity was approximately 0.5 muA/nM.

INTRODUCTION

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element, yet it is neurotoxic in excess. Mn exposure can occur in many ways. For example, welders and Mn refinery workers are at risk of high level exposure [1]. At high levels, Mn can cause a neurologic psychiatric disorder manganism, as well as anxiety, nervousness, irritability, violent behavior, impulsive compulsive behaviors and sleep disturbances. Thus, it is important to monitor blood Mn values in workers in such occupational settings.