Immunoanalysis of histamine through a novel chemical derivatization

The immunoanalysis of histamine was carried out with the powerful approach of chemical derivatization. A novel acylating reagent, succinyl glycinamide N-hydroxysuccinimide ester, was synthesized, and monoclonal antibodies were raised to acylated histamine. The monoclonal antibodies had 5 X 10(5) greater affinity for acylated histamine than for native histamine. In agreement with theoretical prediction, no interference was generated, even with closely related amines. An immunoassay of exceptional selectivity and sensitivity was designed that can be used to quantify histamine in any biologic fluid or cell extract.