RAPID ASSAY FOR FUNCTIONAL HUMAN ALPHA1-PROTEINASE INHIBITOR

摘要

A simple, rapid and reliable assay for measuring functional enzyme inhibitor levels in body fluids and tissues, especially functional α1-proteinase inhibitor levels in human plasma or serum. α2-Macroglobulin is first inactivated, then porcine pancreatic elastase incubated with the samples to form a complex between the elastase and the functional α1-PI. Deficient individuals are detected by the presence of a color change following addition of substrate. If desirable, residual enzyme activity can then be calculated and the α1-PI levels present in the original sample determined. The method provides a means for early screening of individuals with a genetic deficiency in circulating levels of α1-PI, thereby facilitating treatment and prevention of familial emphysema.