QUANTITATION OF GAMMA-TRACE IN HUMAN BIOLOGICAL-FLUIDS - INDICATIONS FOR PRODUCTION IN THE CENTRAL NERVOUS-SYSTEM

γTrace was purified in large amounts from urine and used for the production of a specific rabbit antiserum. An enzyme immunoassay for quantitation of γtrace 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 γtrace 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 γtrace values up to 13 times the normal mean plasma value. The results indicate a production of γtrace in the central nervous system and that the protein is primarily catabolized by the kidney. © 1979 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.