Hydrogel encapsulated biosensors for the detection of biologically significant vanadium and selenium

Abstract

Vanadium and selenium salts are toxic in large amounts, but trace amounts are necessary for cellular function in many organisms. Exposure to high level of selenium has been linked to delays in early childhood development as well as the development with onset of diabetes type II. Vanadium is a relatively controversial dietary supplement, used primarily for increasing insulin sensitivity. These metals have been identified as potential human carcinogens that disrupt cellular metabolic processes at high level, causing lung cancer, brain damage and DNA damage. Developing a sensor system that can monitor the level of vanadium and selenium in aqueous and selected real samples is a strong priority.