Inhibitor-treated microbial sensor for the selective determination of glutamic acid

Abstract

An amperometric sensor containing Bacillus subtilis with a high selectivity for glutamic acid has been developed. The bacteria were treated with chloromercuribenzoate and NaF, which inhibit the uptake and assimilation of glucose. The resulting electrode is characterised by a linear response to glutamic acid over the concentration range 0–550 mg l^–1. In the kinetic mode the response time is 10–20 s. The sensor is stable for a period up to 14 d.