Abstract
M.Sc. (Chemistry)
Dopamine (DA) as a well-known neurotransmitters (NT), is a chemical messenger
involved in the renal, hormonal, cardiovascular and central nervous system and enables
neuronal communication. Dopamine forms part of some crucial metabolic and
physiological processes within the body. Various diseases and disorders such as
Parkinson’s Disease and Schizophrenia may stem from its imbalance [1, 2]. Certain
analytes such as iodide, as an essential micronutrient, may also be indicative of the
physiological health of a person. Its imbalance within the physiological system may either
cause Goiter or act as a Goitrogen. It has been seen to affect 656 million people
worldwide [1, 3]. The development of rapid and sensitive methods for the detection of
these electroactive biomolecules and analytes, are important for both clinical and
numerous non-clinical applications. The aim of the study was to synthesize metal
enriched polymers as electro-catalysts for the efficient and sensitive detection of electroactive
analytes. Electro-analytical chemistry has served as an alternative branch for the
study of some physiological systems. These electrochemical sensors are attractive due
to their high sensitivity, good controllability, rapid response rate and real-time detection
[1]. Functional composite materials with unique physical and chemical properties have
provided significant benefits for biological detection. Metallic nanoparticles contribute
interesting qualities to materials, with respect to their unique electronic and electrocatalytic
properties. It is dependent on their size and morphology. The detective potential,
sensitivity and selectivity of Ag (0)-2ADPA and Cu(I)-PANI towards dopamine and iodide
in an electrochemical based system was investigated during this study.