Detection of secretion from pancreatic islets using chemically modified electrodes

Secretion of insulin from pancreatic islets was monitored indirectly by detecting zinc. Anodic stripping voltammetric measurements of zinc were done on a bismuth-modified electrode. Comparison of the performance of bismuth-modified electrodes and mercury film electrodes showed that bismuth is an appropriate alternative for Zn detection. The bismuth-coated electrode was used to detect zinc in insulin samples and insulin secreted from pancreatic islets upon stimulation with high concentrations of K(+). Detection of zinc released from pancreatic islets was done in the culture medium without any further cleanup. This detection method can be used to monitor secretion from pancreatic islets in their native environment.