Concept:
A biosensor is an analytical device that combines a biological component with a physicochemical detector.
• It is used for the detection of a chemical substance (an analyte).
• The biological element reacts with or binds to the analyte to produce a signal.
Step 1: The Role of the Biological Component.
The biological sensitive element can be an enzyme, antibody, nucleic acid, or even a whole cell.
Enzymes are frequently used because of their high specificity toward a particular substrate.
Step 2: Why Immobilization is Necessary.
To create a functional sensor that can be used repeatedly, the biological element must be "immobilized."
Immobilization ensures the enzyme stays in close contact with the transducer surface.
This prevents the loss of the biological agent and enhances the stability and shelf-life of the biosensor.
Final Answer:
Biosensors typically contain an Immobilized enzyme as the biological recognition element.