Assessing acetylcholinesterase catalytic activity in the marine environment
Salma Hafed‐Khatiri, David Salinas‐Torres, F. Montilla
Abstract
This research work presents a straightforward electrochemical method to assess acetylcholinesterase (AChE) catalytic activity in the marine environment, which is directly affected by the presence of pollutants. Such an electrochemical approach consists of using p -acetoxyphenol, whose hydrolysis is akin to that of acetylcholine and monitoring the electroactive product (hydroquinone). Despite structural alterations of AChE in synthetic seawater revealed by fluorescence measurements, the enzyme's folded state is stable. This enzyme's stability together with its performance in the selected medium determines its capacity for marine monitoring applications. As proof of concept, the inhibitory effects of an organophosphate pesticide (malathion) on AChE activity were performed, confirming that malathion meaningfully inhibited the AChE enzymatic activity. Overall, this electrochemical approach provides a robust platform for real-time monitoring of AChE activity in marine ecosystems. The findings underscore its potential for developing biosensors to monitor neurotoxic contaminants, offering a valuable tool for environmental protection and marine monitoring.