Fluorescence detection of β-estradiol using a molecularly imprinted polymer

A fluorescence sensing system has been developed for the determination of P-estradiol using a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and liquid chromatography (LC). Two approaches were explored: (a) direct measurement of the beta-estradiol fluorescence; (b) a method based on the competitive displacement by the analyte of a fluorescent compound from specific binding sites in the imprinted polymer. Detection based on the direct mode shows a linear response over the range of 0.1-20 mu M (30-5000 ng ml(-1)). The time necessary for the measurement of one sample is about 15 min. This approach makes possible the development of highly selective and sensitive analytical systems based on MIPs which can be prepared with selectivity for a wide variety of substances. (C)2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.