Determination of melatonin in biological samples by capillary electrophoresis

The determination of melatonin (MLT) in physiological samples was investigated using capillary electrophoresis (CE). Mouse blood was collected in tubes containing EDTA, centrifuged at 1500 g for 20 min at 4°C, and stored at −20°C. Plasma samples were extracted with dichloroethane, centrifuged and the aqueous phase was discarded. Then the organic phase was evaporated to dryness. The residue was dissolved in deionized water and filtered with a microfilter (0.22 μm). Separations were carried out using a CE system equipped with a fused silica capillary [80 cm (effective length 52 cm)×75 μm I.D.] and an ultraviolet–visible detector (200 nm), and programmed to provide 25 mM 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (pH 5.7). Injection was performed hydrostatically by elevating the sample by 10 cm at the cathodic side of the capillary. The calibration curve, reproducibility, recovery and limit of detection were examined, and validation of the method was performed. The result showed that MLT in blood could be easily determined with the new method.