ABSTRACT
Among various methodologies used for serotonin detection and quantification in plants, the limits of detection, sample extraction, and noise interference are some of the factors that affect output. These methods differ in their sensitivity and specificity toward detection limits of serotonin. Stability of serotonin is often regulated by temperature, pH, and metal ions. A wide range of metabolites (phenols, flavones, lignin, free radicals, coniferyl alcohol, sinapyl alcohol) are primarily present in the crude extracts, which allow oxidation or derivatization of serotonin. A higher range of serotonin detection limits and characterization of its derivatives has been better obtained by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The LC-MS method exhibits higher sensitivity with better detection abilities. Furthermore, derivatization of compounds is not required. LC-MS methods have been widely used in investigations of both qualitative and quantitative analysis of serotonin in various plant systems. Because of the wide range of LC systems, MS techniques, column types, and solvent mixtures, no single available method is suitable for all applications. Evidences, therefore, provide promising steps toward commercialization of serotonin quantification among various food crops. Serotonin-mediated signaling events like serotonin–protein interaction, serotonin-induced hormonal regulation, or other biomolecular changes are necessary to be deciphered with respect to plant physiological processes.
