Oxidative determination of 14C-labeled 2-oxo acids

A simple and rapid assay for the determination of 1-14C- or U-14C-labeled 2-oxo acids is described. It is based on the selective and complete oxidation of the carboxyl group to 14CO2. Preceding purification procedures are not necessary. In rat hindlimb perfusion studies, the procedure was used to develop an indirect method for the estimation of the intracellular dilution of [1-14C]pyruvate and to determine the relationship between the transamination and decarboxylation rates of leucine in the perfused tissue by the use of tracer doses of L-[1-14C]leucine.