Electrochemical detection of ATP release in-vitro and in-vivo

ATP is one of the most widely distributed extracellular signaling molecules, regulating many physiological and pathological processes via activation of purinergic receptors. Extracellular ATP may originate from cell-regulated release but also from cell membrane injury. To measure ATP release in-vitro or in-vivo for insight into the mechanisms of transmission requires its direct, sensitive, non-invasive detection, ideally with high spatial and temporal resolution. This current opinion article highlights recent research in ATP detection using electrochemical methods and presents examples how in-vitro electrochemical ATP measurements can contribute to insights in purinergic signaling for pivotal functions like alveolar homeostasis and how ATP acts as major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.