Potentiometric flow-injection system for determination of alkaline phosphatase in human serum

A flow-injection system for detection of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in human serum samples has been developed. As a specific and inexpensive ALP substrate for this kinetic assay monofluorophosphate (MFP) was applied. For detection of fluoride ions, generated in the course of the biocatalytic hydrolysis of MFP, conventional fluoride ion-selective electrode based on LaF(3)-crystalline membrane was applied. After optimization the system allows analysis of human serum with high selectivity and relatively short time of analysis (5-6 samples h(-1)). Volume of serum required for analysis is 0.05 mL. The system is useful for determination of the enzyme activity in human serum samples at physiological and pathological levels as well as for detection of isoenzymatic forms of ALP.