Quantitation of γ-trace in human biological fluids: Indications for production in the central nervous system

Abstract

γ-Trace was purified in large amounts from urine and used for the production of a specific rabbit antiserum. An enzyme immunoassay for quantitation of γ-trace was developed using the pure protein as a primary standard. Its sensitivity was approximately 30 μg/l. An enzyme amplified single radial immunodiffusion was developed as well. Its sensitivity was approximately 0.3 mg/1. These assays allowed quantitation of γ-trace in normal human biological fluids. The following results were obtained (mean ± SD): cerebrospinal fluid: 5.8 ± 2.2 mg/1, plasma: 1.1 ± 0.42 mg/1, saliva: 1.8 ± 0.88 mg/1 and urine: 0.095 ± 0.057 mg/1. Plasma samples from patients with advanced renal failure revealed γ-trace values up to 13 times the normal mean plasma value. The results indicate a production of γ-trace in the central nervous system and that the protein is primarily catabolized by the kidney.

Key Words:

• cerebrospinal fluid proteins
• immunoenzyme techniques
• proteinuria