An electrochemical immunosensor for total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was fabricated based on anti-PSA antibody-functionalized gold colloids/alumina sol-gel film. The presence of colloidal gold provides a good microenvironment for the immobilization of biomolecules. The fabrication process of the immunosensor was characterized by cyclic voltammetry. A direct electrochemical immunoassay format was employed to detect PSA on the basis of the potential change before and after the antigen-antibody interaction. Under optimal conditions, the potential change was proportional to PSA concentration ranging from 4.0 to 13 ng mL(-1) with a detection limit of 3.4 ng mL(-1). In addition, the performance and factors influencing the performance of the immunosensor were investigated and optimized. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.