Multiplexed Electrochemical Device for the Detection of Biomarkers of Parkinson’s Disease Using 3D Printing

Abstract

Acetylcholine and dopamine are two important neurotransmitters when diagnosing Parkinson’s disease, as the imbalance in acetylcholine and dopamine levels can lead to progressive neurological disorders. Currently, there are many detection methods for the individual neurotransmitters with their own advantages and disadvantages. Previously, dopamine has been highlighted as the most relevant biomarker for diagnosis, but interest in combined detection of acetylcholine and dopamine has increased. Since it has been discovered that both motor function and learning difficulties in Parkinsonism is dependent on dopamine and acetylcholine levels, determination of both biomarkers simultaneously has increased therapeutic relevance. This work reports the detection of acetylcholine and dopamine using 3D printed potentiometric and 3D printed voltammetric sensors, respectively. Linear responses were obtained over broad concentration ranges for both biomarkers with a fully 3D printed ion-selective membrane (acetylcholine) and conductive carbon electrodes (dopamine). This work describes a novel fabrication protocol for sensors that have the capability to detect both biomarkers simultaneously when integrated into a low-cost, reliable, and user-friendly multiplexed device, also fabricated with 3D printing technologies.