Cholinesterase inhibitors are widely used as pesticides in agriculture, but also form a group of organophosphates known as nerve chemical warfare agents. This calls for close attention regarding their detection, including the use of various biosensors. One such biosensor made in the Czech Republic is the Detehit, which is based on a cholinesterase reaction that is assessed using a colour indicator-the Ellman's reagent-which is anchored on cellulose filter paper together with the substrate. With the use of this biosensor, detection is simple, quick, and sensitive. However, its disadvantage is that a less pronounced yellow discoloration occurs, especially under difficult light conditions. As a possible solution, a new indicator/substrate carrier has been designed. It is made of glass nanofibres, so the physical characteristics of the carrier positively influence reaction conditions, and as a result improve the colour response of the biosensor. The authors present and discuss some of the results of the study of this carrier under various experimental conditions. These findings have been used for the development of a modified Detehit biosensor.

Faculty of Environmental Technology University of Chemistry and Technology Technická 5 166 28 Prague Czech Republic

Oritest spol s r o Nábřežní 90 4 150 00 Prague Czech Republic

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Affordable Portable Platform for Classic Photometry and Low-Cost Determination of Cholinesterase Activity

A Strip Biosensor with Guinea Green B and Fuchsin Basic Color Indicators on a Glass Nanofiber Carrier for the Cholinesterase Detection of Nerve Agents

Modified Biosensor for Cholinesterase Inhibitors with Guinea Green B as the Color Indicator