Related Experiment Videos
[Rapid determination of protein C activity]
F Nicham1, J F Guichaoua, G Contant
1Laboratoire SERBIO, Asnières.
Insights
A new diagnostic method for Protein C (PC) deficiency uses snake venom and a chromogenic substrate. This rapid, sensitive assay aids in identifying PC deficiency, crucial for preventing thromboembolic events in young patients.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Congenital Protein C (PC) deficiency is a significant risk factor for serious thromboembolic events, particularly in young individuals.
- Even mild decreases in PC levels (40-60%) can precipitate thrombotic episodes, underscoring the need for accurate diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel, sensitive, and rapid method for measuring Protein C activity.
- To assess the utility of this new method in diagnosing congenital and acquired PC deficiencies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an activator from Agkistrodon C. Contortrix snake venom.
- Employed the synthetic chromogenic substrate CBS 65-25 for PC activity measurement.
- Compared results with ELISA and clotting methods.
Main Results:
- The new method demonstrated comparable results to established ELISA and clotting assays in normal individuals and those with deficiencies.
- The method showed potential for routine clinical use, adaptable to standard laboratory instruments.
- Discrepancies were noted in patients undergoing anticoagulant therapy.
Conclusions:
- The developed snake venom-based chromogenic assay is a viable and sensitive tool for Protein C activity measurement.
- This method offers a rapid and accessible approach for diagnosing Protein C deficiency, aiding in the prevention of thromboembolic events.
- The assay's adaptability suggests its potential for widespread adoption in clinical chemistry laboratories.
Abstract:
The diagnosis of Protein C (PC) congenital deficiency is of first importance because it leads, more frequently than Antithrombin III deficiency, to serious thromboembolic accidents in young patients, even when PC levels are slightly decreased (40 p. cent up to 60 p. cent). In order to measure PC activity, the authors developed a new method using the activator from Agkistrodon C. Contortrix snake venom and the synthetic chromogenic substrate CBS 65-25. Results obtained on plasma from normal individuals, congenital and acquired deficiencies, are comparable on the one hand, to those found with an ELISA method, and on the other hand with the clotting method, except for patients under anticoagulant therapy. This new rapid and sensitive method can be performed manually and is easily adapted on instruments used in clinical chemistry laboratories. This method is potentially available for routine use.