An automated Elson-Morgan assay for 2-amino-2-deoxy-hexoses, with increased sensitivity

The Elson-Morgan assay for 2-amino-2-deoxyhexoses, despite its many modifications, can still give variable results because of slight variations in reaction conditions. An automated method is reported which uses microgram samples and provides greater sensitivity than hitherto possible. The use of sodium orthophosphate and optimisation of the concentrations of the reagents provide conditions that are more stable, and results that are more reliable, than any previously reported.