Polarographic Determination of Subnanogram Quantities of Free Platinum in Reaction Mixture with Dna

Abstract
A simple and rapid differential pulse polarographic assay for measurement of platinum drug binding to DNA is described. The method makes it possible to determine the free (unbound) platinum compound in the presence of DNA or platinum - DNA complex. The method is based on the polarographic catalytic hydrogen current yielded by platinum (II) or (IV) complexes in formaldehyde - hydrazine - sulphuric acid background electrolyte, in which DNA or platinum - DNA complex precipitate. The lower level of analytical utility of this method is c. 1 × 10−9 M.