Revolutionary Urine Analysis Method Developed by International Team
Scientists from Kuban State University, in collaboration with experts from Moscow State University, CanAm Bioresearch (Canada), Wuhan Textile University (China), and Algimed Techno (Belarus), have made a groundbreaking advancement in biomedical diagnostics. They have developed a new method for analyzing urine that significantly enhances the detection of amino acids and catecholamines. This innovative technique, recently published in the Journal of Chromatography Open, is not only 50 times more accurate but also seven times cheaper than traditional testing methods.
Importance of Amino Acids and Catecholamines in Disease Diagnosis
The analysis of urine for specific amino acids is crucial for diagnosing various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Changes in amino acid composition can indicate the presence of malignant tumors, while elevated levels of catecholamines may signal neurological issues. Traditional methods for such analyses are often costly and time-consuming, requiring multiple steps and reagents. However, the new method utilizes phthalylglycyl chloride, which effectively binds with 18 different amino acids and catecholamines, allowing for simultaneous detection. This advancement provides medical laboratories with a more efficient tool for diagnosing various conditions.
Future Applications and Expansion of the Method
The researchers have ambitious plans for their new method. According to project manager Azamat Temerdashev, they aim to extend the analysis to blood samples, which would enhance the detection of genetic diseases in newborns. For instance, the method could reliably identify phenylketonuria, a genetic disorder affecting the metabolism of phenylalanine found in various food products. Additionally, the team is exploring the use of other reagents to facilitate the analysis of steroid hormones. This innovative approach could revolutionize the field of medical diagnostics, making it more accessible and effective for healthcare providers worldwide.
