New Liquid Haptoglobin Assay for the RX Series

Crumlin, United Kingdom, January 20, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Haptoglobin is an acute phase protein made primarily in the liver. Its main function is to bind free haemoglobin and remove it from circulation preventing damage to the kidneys and loss of iron following hemolysis. Haptoglobin measurements are mainly used to diagnose haemolytic anaemia and to distinguish it from other types of anaemia. In cases of haemolytic anaemia, Haptoglobin levels in the blood decrease significantly however low levels may also indicate red blood cell destruction due to sickle cell anaemia or Thalassemia.

As an acute phase reactant, Haptoglobin levels in the blood are significantly increased in response to infection, inflammation, burns, surgery and trauma, however, Haptoglobin is not generally used to diagnose or monitor these conditions.

The Randox Haptoglobin assay is based on an immunoturbidimetric method where Haptoglobin in the sample is diluted and reacted with specific antiserum yielding insoluble aggregates that can be measured turbidimetrically at 340nm.

A wide measuring range of 0.13g/l – 3.68g/l ensures the assay is capable of accurately measuring above and below the patient normal range while an extended onboard stability of 28 days minimises reagent waste. Other features include:

· Traceable to Certified Reference Material; CRM Da470k/IFCC
· Excellent precision; within run precision <5% CV, Total run precision <8%CV
· Limited interference from Bilirubin, Haemoglobin and Triglycerides

Prozone effects not demonstrated up to at least 7.64g/l
Excellent correlation to standard methods, a correlation co-efficient of 0.9747 was obtained with another commercially available kit

Liquid ready to use quality controls and calibrators are also available. Our liquid specific protein controls are stable for 30 days at 2-8oC and are 100% human in origin. Furthermore 3 clinically significant levels are available with assayed target values and ranges for 27 different analytes including Haptoglobin.

In addition to quality control we also have a specific protein EQA programme available providing customers with a complete quality management solution. The bi-weekly RIQAS programme comprises 26 proteins and allows assessment of analytical performance in comparison to other laboratories using the same method /instrument.

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