4. Regeneration of biosensors

For routine use, a biosensor must be reusable. The analyte must therefore be detached from the ligand under chemical conditions that enable it to retain its full capture capacity. In the case of immunosensors, the higher the affinity between the antibody and its respective antigen, the greater the analytical sensitivity of the system. Regeneration of the antibody binding sites immobilized on the biosensor surface will then require the use of drastic conditions. Regeneration using acidic or alkaline solutions, guanidinium chloride or a sudden change in ionic strength may reduce the ability of the antibody to capture the antigen, leading to a gradual decrease in measured concentrations and therefore a reduction in the sensor's lifetime.

Furthermore, very short reaction times between antibody and analyte in continuous flow systems can result in increased cross-reactivity...