Serotonin, which is commonly known as the “happiness hormone”, is a neurotransmitter that is essential for life and is synthesized via the metabolism of tryptophan. There are various different natural ways of increasing serotonin levels, such as physical exercise, sunbathing, having a varied diet and getting sufficient sleep. An increase in the concentration of serotonin produces a state of wellbeing, relaxation, satisfaction and increases concentration and self-esteem. By contrast, serotonin deficiency can cause depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc. There is therefore a need to control its concentration in the body.
The purpose of this research is to determine serotonin in low concentrations using nanotechnology. To this end, we develop membranes with groups that react with gold nanoparticles and can perform selective serotonin retention in human plasma. The serotonin can then be determined using optical techniques (absorbance and fluorescence).
Keywords: serotonin; gold nanoparticles; colorimetric sensors.
Directed by: Antonio Luis Medina Castillo
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