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A Rapid and Quantitative Fluorimetric Method for Protein-Targeting Small Molecule Drug Screening
Published on: October 16, 2015
A simple fluorescent method for quantitative determination of aortic protein uptake
Journal of Applied Physiology
|July 1, 1975
Summary
A new method uses fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated bovine serum albumin (FITCBSA) to measure protein uptake in rat aortas. This technique confirms an albumin permeability gradient in the thoracic aorta, comparable to isotopic methods.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Aortic protein uptake is crucial for understanding vascular health.
- Previous methods for measuring albumin flux in the aorta have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a quantitative system for direct protein tracing in the aorta.
- To measure net protein uptake in the aorta using a novel fluorescent tracer.
Main Methods:
- Development of a quantitative system using fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated bovine serum albumin (FITCBSA).
- Application of the FITCBSA system in Wistar rats to measure aortic endothelial surface area.
- Comparison of FITCBSA uptake values with a previously established isotopic technique.
Main Results:
- A mean aortic FITCBSA net uptake of 29.7 x 10(-17) g/µm²/24h was determined.
- FITCBSA was localized along the endothelium and collagen-elastin bands within the aorta.
- Results were comparable to isotopic methods, validating the new system.
Conclusions:
- The FITCBSA system provides a reliable method for direct protein tracing and net protein uptake measurement in the aorta.
- The findings reconfirm the existence of an albumin permeability gradient in the thoracic aorta.
- This quantitative system offers a valuable tool for vascular research.

