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Azelaic and pimelic acids: metabolic intermediates or artefacts?
M J Bennett1, M C Ragni, I Hood
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Elevated urinary azelaic and pimelic acids aid in diagnosing mitochondrial and peroxisomal beta-oxidation disorders. However, sample storage in plastic containers can cause artificial increases in these and other dicarboxylic acids.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Chemistry
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Azelaic and pimelic acids are biomarkers for mitochondrial and peroxisomal beta-oxidation disorders.
- Accurate quantification of urinary organic acids is crucial for diagnosing metabolic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential artifactual sources of elevated dicarboxylic acids in urine samples.
- To determine the impact of sample storage containers on the detection of azelaic, pimelic, and other dicarboxylic acids.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of urinary organic acids.
- Comparison of sample storage in plastic versus glass containers.
- Detection of azelaic, pimelic, adipic, suberic, and sebacic acids.
Main Results:
- Azelaic, pimelic, and even-chain-length dicarboxylic acids (adipic, suberic, sebacic) were detected as artifacts in samples stored in plastic containers.
- These findings suggest that plastic containers contribute to artificial elevations of these organic acids.
Conclusions:
- Sample storage conditions significantly impact the accurate measurement of urinary dicarboxylic acids.
- Glass containers are recommended for storing urine samples to prevent artifactual elevations and ensure reliable diagnostic results for beta-oxidation disorders.
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