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An enzyme immunoassay for intrinsic factor in urine
1Department of Haematology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, UK.
Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
|August 17, 1999
Summary
This study developed an enzyme immunoassay to measure intrinsic factor (IF) in urine. The assay detected low IF levels or antibodies in pernicious anemia patients, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Chemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Intrinsic factor (IF) is crucial for vitamin B12 absorption.
- Pernicious anemia is characterized by a lack of IF or antibodies against it.
- Assessing urinary IF could offer a diagnostic alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an enzyme immunoassay for measuring intrinsic factor in urine.
- To assess the feasibility of using urinary IF as a biomarker for pernicious anemia.
Main Methods:
- An enzyme immunoassay was adapted for the detection of intrinsic factor in native urine samples.
- Assay performance was evaluated using samples from healthy individuals and pernicious anemia patients.
- Interference from intrinsic factor antibodies and high cobalamin concentrations was assessed.
Main Results:
- The enzyme immunoassay successfully measured intrinsic factor in urine from healthy individuals (40-54 pmol/l).
- Intrinsic factor antibodies and high cobalamin levels interfered with assay accuracy.
- Pernicious anemia patients exhibited low urinary intrinsic factor concentrations or the presence of IF antibodies.
Conclusions:
- Urinary intrinsic factor measurement is a potential diagnostic tool for pernicious anemia.
- Assay interference must be considered for accurate interpretation.
- Further validation is needed to establish urinary IF as a reliable biomarker.
