Chromatophore based cytosensor: Responses to various biologically active agents

The design, operation and performances of a cytosensor based on immobilized living chromatophores isolated from Betta splendens Siamese fighting fish are presented in this paper. Development of the cell immobilization technique as an important cytosensor enabling technology, and integration of the immobilized cells in the cytosensor system is described. The cytosensor was used to test several classes of biologically active agents including neurotransmitters, adenyl cyclase activators, cytoskeleton effectors, cell membrane effectors, and protein synthesis inhibitors and the obtained responses were analyzed. Particular response features such as mode of response, its magnitude, kinetics, sensitivity and dose dependence were monitored and may be used as a basis for mathematical modeling of the responses. The results indicated that the cytosensor has great potential for use in food and water testing and in pharmacy.