Radioimmunoassay for 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid

Antisera to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), a widely used herbicide, have been obtained from rabbits following immunization with various 2,4-D-protein conjugates. Employing [125I] 2,4-D-tyramine as the radioligand for the antisera, very poor assay sensitivity was achieved because of a much higher affinity of the antibodies to the tracer. When using [6-3H] 2,4-D(specific radioactivity 465 GBq/mmol) a sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) for 2,4-D could be developed, which allows determination directly in water, plasma and urine samples. Levels as low as approximately 100 pg (450 femtomoles) of 2,4-D can be detected. The antiserum is fairly specific for 2,4-D. Other related phenoxycarboxylic acids and dichlorophenol showed a cross-reactivity smaller than 10%. After a single administration of 2,4-D (0.91 mg/100 g body weight, orally) to rats, plasma and urine levels were determined at different times. Results correspond to those found in the literature, thus indicating the utility of the RIA. Further applications and limitations are discussed.