Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
12:11
ELIME (Enzyme Linked Immuno Magnetic Electrochemical) Method for Mycotoxin Detection
Published on: October 23, 2009
A chemo-enzymatic colorimetric cascade for detecting ethylene glycol contamination
Tawatchai Singphongam1, Tadtarit Anujareewat1, Wachirawit Chinantuya2
1Department of Biochemistry and Center for Excellence in Protein and Enzyme Technology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
The FEBS Journal
|July 27, 2026
Summary
A new colorimetric assay detects ethylene glycol (EG) using a chemo-enzymatic cascade. This method enhances sensitivity for detecting EG contamination and PET hydrolase activity in various samples.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Enzyme Assays
Background:
- Ethylene glycol (EG) detection is crucial for medical diagnostics and food safety.
- EG quantification indicates polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hydrolase activity during PET depolymerization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sensitive colorimetric assay for ethylene glycol (EG) detection.
- To apply this assay for quantifying PET hydrolase activity and detecting EG contamination.
Main Methods:
- Developed a chemo-enzymatic cascade involving alcohol dehydrogenase and chemical reactions.
- Incorporated an auxiliary cofactor regeneration system to boost detection sensitivity.
- Validated the assay using gas chromatography-flame ionization.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 32-fold enhancement in detection sensitivity.
- Demonstrated excellent linearity (r² = 0.9952) and a low limit of detection (52.84 ± 0.88 μm).
- Successfully applied the assay to detect EG in sorbitol, human serum, and PET hydrolase activity.
Conclusions:
- The developed colorimetric assay offers high sensitivity and efficiency for EG detection.
- This method is suitable for measuring PET hydrolase activity and identifying EG contamination in food and clinical settings.
- The assay shows potential as a scalable, high-throughput tool for diverse applications.
