Review: ion-selective electrodes in clinical chemistry

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Electrochemistry
• Biomedical Instrumentation

Background:

• Electrode systems are crucial for serum analysis, with various sensor types developed over time.
• Understanding theoretical frameworks and numerical data is essential for accurate serum analysis.
• Recent advancements in instrumentation necessitate a review of electrode system performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a theoretical framework and compile data for electrode systems in serum analysis.
• To discuss the interactions of various effects influencing precision in modern instrumentation.
• To review different sensor types, their applications, and performance characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of original literature and recent applications of different sensor types.
• Discussion of theoretical frameworks including Nicolsky Eq., Debye-Hückel formalism, and Henderson Eq.
• Analysis of factors affecting electrode performance such as interfering ions, activity conversion, and liquid-junction potentials.

Main Results:

• Detailed treatment of response to interfering ions (Nicolsky Eq.).
• Explanation of concentration to activity conversion using Debye-Hückel formalism.
• Analysis of liquid-junction potentials (Henderson Eq.), Debye-Hückel parameters, selectivity factors, and physiologic activity ranges.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive overview of electrode systems for serum analysis.
• It highlights the importance of understanding theoretical principles for precise measurements.
• The discussion covers various electrode types and their relevance in contemporary diagnostic applications.