Development of Sensors to Monitor Blood Constituents in Vivo

摘要

The ultimate objective of this program was the preparation of insertable sensors for blood-plasma ions based on lipid elements. Materials were sought which would provide mechanical support, in which the membrane was to be imbedded to compensate for its fragility. Glycerol water mixtures were experimented with, and also two solids: agarose and 'Hydron' hydrogels. Glycerol media increased the lifetimes of the bilayer membrane considerably but changed their ion transport properties when sensitized by cyclic polypeptide antibiotics. Stabilization was not achieved in the aqueous gels. Membranes were formed on a small hole in the side of one millimeter catheter tubing, providing an insertable configuration. The very rigid mechanical support developed for forming the membranes does not seem to be necessary, but a smooth, thin edge on the hole is of great importance. A prototype insertable sensor was constructed, consisting of a catheter tube filled with agarose gel with a membrane on the hole in the tube. (Author)