Optimization of Poly(l-Amino Acids)-Based Platforms for Sensing and Biosensing: A Cyclic Voltammetry Study

Poly(amino acids) and gold nanoparticles are stable and biocompatible materials with distinguishing features which can be used to build nanocomposite electrochemical platforms for sensing applications. This paper presents the optimization of the building steps of these nanocomposite platforms using cyclic voltammetry. Screen-printed graphite electrodes were first modified by electropolymerizing various l-amino acids and then by electrodepositing gold nanoparticles. The electroactive surface area was calculated for all platforms, which were then applied in the electrochemical oxidation of 1-naphthol as a model analyte: oxidation peaks were observed in all cases, with the current peak height increasing with increasing analyte concentration, thus demonstrating the potential of nanocomposite platforms for developing electrochemical sensors and biosensors.