Determination of estrone sulfate in plasma by radioimmunoassay without deconjugation

A radioimmunoassay method using highly specific antiserum without prior deconjugation has been developed for determination of estrone sulfate in human plasma. Antiserum was elicited in the rabbit by immunization with antigen in which the sulfated steroid hapten is linked to a carrier protein through the C-6 position. After treatment with Rivanol, the protein of albumin-free antiserum was covalently bound to a p-arylamine glass bead support through the cross-linkage with glutaraldehyde. A simple and reliable method for measurement of estrone sulfate which involves elimination of endogenous interferences by use of Sep-pak C18 followed by radioimmunoassay employing the antibody-glass preparation, was established and applied to peripheral plasma throughout normal pregnancy.