Determination of Serotonin Concentration in Single Human Platelets through Single-Entity Electrochemistry

Abstract

This research introduces a method to directly detect serotonin in a single platelet through single-entity electrochemistry. Platelets isolated from human blood were analyzed by cyclic voltammetry and current–time measurements. When a single platelet collides with an ultramicroelectrode, serotonin inside the platelet is oxidized at the electrode surface, and an anodic current peak is consequently observed during measurement. The concentration of serotonin can be determined by integrating this peak current. In addition, this method can be used to determine the platelet concentration. Analysis of the collision frequency of platelets can provide information about the platelet concentration in the blood. As a result, platelet levels and serotonin concentrations in single platelets can be measured quickly and easily.