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A detection tube for cholinesterase inhibiting compounds
International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry
|January 1, 1979
Summary
A new detection tube uses horse serum butyrylcholinesterase enzyme to detect organophosphates. This simple, sensitive device identifies dichlorvos (DDVP) at low concentrations via a color change reaction.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzyme from horse serum catalyzes ester hydrolysis.
- The reaction with 2,6-dichloroindophenyl acetate produces a distinct color change upon enzyme activity.
- Inactivated enzyme prevents this color transformation, indicating specificity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a cost-effective, sensitive, and specific detection tube for organophosphate compounds.
- To utilize the enzymatic hydrolysis of a chromogenic ester for detection purposes.
Main Methods:
- Development of a detection tube containing an aqueous buffer, a freeze-dried chromogenic ester (2,6-dichloroindophenyl acetate), and freeze-dried butyrylcholinesterase.
- Incorporation of fillers to promote dissolution and stability of reagents.
- Design includes a breakable ampoule and an indication layer for visual detection.
Main Results:
- The detection tube demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for organophosphate detection.
- Dichlorvos (DDVP) was detected at concentrations as low as 0.4 mg/m³ with a sampled air volume of 21.
- The color transformation serves as a reliable indicator of enzyme activity and thus, the presence of DDVP.
Conclusions:
- The developed detection tube offers a simple, cheap, and effective method for detecting organophosphates like DDVP.
- The biochemical reaction between butyrylcholinesterase and the chromogenic ester provides a sensitive analytical tool.
- This technology has potential applications in environmental monitoring and safety assessments.