DEMOX: a miniature optical oxygen sensor

Molecular oxygen is a prerequisite for the life of most animal and plant cells. Since both respiration and photosynthesis are vital for cells and tissues, measurement and control of oxygen consumption and production is of particular importance in the life sciences. Traditionally, oxygen concentration is measured electrochemically, while more recently optical sensors have become more widely used. The working principle of these optical sensors is based on selective quenching of the luminescence of dyes in the presence of oxygen.