Towards in-vivo ATP sensing

An effective method for continuous measurement of localized Adenosine 5′-triphospate (ATP) release in-vivo is becoming increasingly important, due to its potential role in the mechanisms behind several psychiatric and neurological disorders. This paper presents an investigation into methods that are used to measure ATP concentration with an emphasis on those that may be employed in a portable in-vivo ATP sensor. First, chemiluminescent techniques including luciferin-luciferase assays and cell surface attached luciferase are discussed. They are effective at performing ATP measurements, however, they require sophisticated imaging equipment which restricts the ability to replicate their functionality in a portable manner. Next, amperometric biosensing techniques are explained. They require less sophisticated equipment to perform measurements, however, they experience long response times and utilize non-FDA approved electrode coatings making them unsuitable for in-vivo measurements. Finally, fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) is explored. It is a technique currently being investigated as a suitable method for measurement of in-vivo ATP concentration. The key finding of the paper is that FSCV is a good candidate for development of portable ATP sensing micro devices.