A solid phase radioimmunoassay method for ferritin in serum using (125)I-labelled ferritin

Area of Science:

• Clinical Chemistry
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Accurate measurement of serum ferritin is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring iron-related disorders and liver conditions.
• Existing methods may have limitations in sensitivity, specificity, or practicality for routine clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a robust solid-phase radioimmunoassay (RIA) for quantifying serum ferritin.
• To assess the clinical utility of the developed RIA in distinguishing ferritin levels across different populations and conditions.

Main Methods:

• A solid-phase RIA was established using (125)I-labeled ferritin conjugate.
• The assay employed competitive inhibition with anti-ferritin antibodies immobilized on polysaccharide particles.
• Method validation focused on specificity, sensitivity, precision, and practicability.

Main Results:

• The developed RIA demonstrated robustness and suitability for human serum ferritin assays.
• Significant differences in serum ferritin levels were observed between healthy men (mean 100 arb U/l) and women (mean 66 arb U/l) (P<0.001).
• Male blood donors exhibited lower ferritin levels (mean 68.5 arb U/l) compared to other healthy men (P<0.002).
• Elevated ferritin levels were noted in patients with iron overload or hepatic damage.
• Serum ferritin levels accurately reflected iron status changes during phlebotomy and iron treatment.

Conclusions:

• The developed solid-phase RIA is a reliable method for serum ferritin determination in clinical studies.
• The assay effectively differentiates ferritin levels in various physiological and pathological states, supporting its diagnostic value.
• Findings highlight the utility of serum ferritin measurement in assessing iron metabolism and related diseases.