Abstract: This invention provides a novel Cryptosporidium parvum protein disulfide isomerase polypeptide, and nucleic acids that encode this polypeptide. The invention also provides methods, reagents, and kits that are useful for diagnosing infection by Cryptosporidium parvum. The methods are based on the discovery of binding agents, including recombinant polyclonal antibodies, that bind to the protein disulfide isomerase polypeptide of C. parvum.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assay for free protein S comprising the addition of a ligand specific for free protein S to a biological fluid sample to form a protein S/ligand complex, and subsequent determination of the amount of the complex formed in the sample. The ligand specific for free protein S is comprised of the C4b binding protein (C4BP), or part thereof, or a compound comprising an amino acid residue sequence that binds specifically to the binding site for C4BP in protein S. The present invention further relates to antibodies specific for free protein S, which can be used as ligands in the assay of the invention, and with protein S related polypeptides, which can be used to produce such antibodies. In addition, the present invention is related to diagnostic test systems, suitable in kit form, comprising the present ligand and at least one further reagent required in the assay for free protein S.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and kits are disclosed for determining one or more target polypeptides in a sample where the target polypeptides have undergone phosphorylation. A mixture comprising the sample and a first reagent comprising a cleavage-inducing moiety and an IMAC resin for a binding site on a target polypeptide is subjected to conditions under which binding of respective binding moieties occurs. The binding site is the result of phosphorylation activity involving the target polypeptide. The method may be employed to determine the target polypeptide itself. In another embodiment the presence and/or amount of the target polypeptide is related to the presence and/or amount and/or activity of an agent such as an enzyme involved in phosphorylation of the target polypeptide.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for evaluating renal functions by measuring megsin protein in a biological specimen. Moreover, the present invention provides immunological assay reagents, as well as kits useful for the measurement of megsin protein in the biological specimen.

Abstract: A device for rapidly collecting tissue samples from organisms serves as a reaction chamber. It includes a solvent used to extract the analyte, a filter, and optional bioconcentrators. The filtered suspension is irradiated with a predetermined wavelength and the emitted, scattered, or reflected photons transmitted to a detector that identifies and quantifies the analyte. The bioconcentrators may consist of antibodies and colloidal metal nanoparticles that enhance emission of Raman signal frequencies by analytes bound to the antibodies. Alternatively, the device may contain only the extraction solvent and a filter.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for screening a compound or its salt that alters the binding property between MCH or its salt and SLC-1 or its salt, characterized by using MCH or its derivative or a salt thereof and SLC-1 or its salt is useful for screening an SLC-1 agonist which can be used not only as an appetite (eating) promoting agent but also as a prophylactic/therapeutic agent for weak pains, atonic bleeding, before and after expulsion, subinvolution of uterus, cesarean section, induced abortion, galactostasis, and the like, and an SLC-1 antagonist which can be used not only as an antiobestic agents (drug), an appetite (eating) modulator, and the like, but also as a prophylactic/therapeutic agent for hyperstimulation, ankylosing uterine contractions, fetal distress, uterine rupture, cervical laceration, preterm delivery, Prader-Wili syndrome and the like.

Abstract: A sensor is provided including a polymer capable of having an alterable measurable property from the group of luminescence and electrical conductivity, the polymer having an intermediate combination of a recognition element, a tethering element and a property-altering element bound thereto and capable of altering the measurable property, the intermediate combination adapted for subsequent separation from the polymer upon exposure to an agent having an affinity for binding to the recognition element whereupon the separation of the intermediate combination from the polymer results in a detectable change in the alterable measurable property, and, detecting said detectable change in the alterable measurable property.

Abstract: Improved methods, reagents, and kits for quantitation of HLA-DR and/or CD11b expression on peripheral blood cells are presented. Inclusion of a lysosomotropic amine, such as chloroquine, during staining stabilizes HLA-DR and CD11b expression. Use of a novel anti-CD14 conjugate, anti-CD14-PerCP/CY5.5, permits the ready discrimination of monocytes. The improved methods, reagents, and kits may be used to assess immune competence, and to direct and monitor immunostimulatory therapies in septic patients exhibiting monocyte deactivation.

Abstract: The invention provides a test kit, having a tube (17) and a reactant (30) which is held between two holding devices (8, 9). Each holding device has a filter (10), with an elastically deformable part (13) transverse to a disc (11), and a spring (15) which presses the elastically deformable part (13) against the walls of the tube (17).

Abstract: A field kit for the collection, isolation and concentration of trace amounts of high explosives (HE), biological weapons (BW) and chemical weapons (CW) residues in air, soil, vegetation, swipe, and liquid samples. The field kit includes a number of Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME) fiber and syringe assemblies in a hermetically sealed transportation container or tubes which includes a sampling port, a number of extra SPME fiber and syringe assemblies, the fiber and syringe assemblies including a protective cap for the fiber, and an extractor for the protective cap, along with other items including spare parts, protective glove, and an instruction manual, all located in an airtight container.

Abstract: This invention provides solid phase specific binding lateral flow assay methods, devices and kits for quantitating high and low molecular weight analytes. The methods and devices of the invention employ labelled reagents which are either analyte analogs or complementary specific binding pair members for the analyte and a novel arrangement of capture zones comprising immobilized specific binding substances for either the analyte or the labelled reagent to effect bound from unbound labelled reagent as a function of analyte concentration. The capture zones are disposed on a non-bibulous matrix defining a flow path from a sample receiving zone to the capture zone. The devices of this invention also include multilane flow paths and multiple capture zones to quantitate analyte.

Abstract: An improved microfabricated apparatus for conducting a multiplicity of individual and simultaneous binding reactions is described. The apparatus comprises a substrate on which are located discrete and isolated sites for binding reactions. The apparatus is characterized by discrete and isolated regions that extend through said substrate and terminate on a second surface thereof such that when a test sample is applied to the substrate, it is capable of penetrating through each such region during the course of said binding reaction. The apparatus is especially useful for sequencing by hybridization of DNA molecules.

Abstract: Test strips for determining the concentration of at least one analyte, e.g., glucose, in a physiological sample and methods for their manufacture and use and are provided. The subject test strips include a transfer element for facilitating the transfer of sample to a reaction area of the test strip. In certain embodiments, the transfer element, typically porous, has a first area and a second area, and in certain embodiments the two areas have different thicknesses. In other embodiments, the transfer element is non-porous and is configured to transfer sample by wicking it between the transfer element and the reaction area of the test strip. In the subject methods, the transport element facilitates transfers of a sample to a reaction area of the test strip. The subject test strips and methods find use in a variety of different applications, particularly in the determination of glucose concentrations.

Abstract: Devices and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a physiological sample are provided. The subject devices are meters characterized by having an internal structure that includes a test strip selecting element having a continuously reduced cross-sectional area configured to select a single test strip at a time and means for determining the concentration of an analyte in a physiological sample applied to the selected test strip. In the subject methods for containing at least one test strip and dispensing a single test strip at a time, a meter having at least one test strip contained therein is provided. The meter is positioned with respect to the ground to cause the single test strip to move from a contained position to a dispensed position. The subject invention also includes kits for use in practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems, methods, screens, reagents and kits for optical system analysis of cells to rapidly determine the distribution, environment, or activity of fluorescently labeled reporter molecules in cells for the purpose of screening large numbers of compounds for those that specifically affect particular biological functions.

Abstract: A method and kit for monitoring autoantibodies to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor in a sample of body fluid, which employs the steps of: (i) incubating TSH receptor with a sample of body fluid; (ii) reacting the incubated sample of body fluid with at least one binding agent which is capable of binding to the TSH receptor in competitive reaction with TSH receptor autoantibodies (TRAb), or in a case where TSH receptor is complexed to labelled antibody, reacting the sample of body fluid with at least one binding agent which can bind to TRAb in such a way as not substantially to interfere with binding of the TRAb to the TSH receptor; and (iii) detecting bound TRAb in the reacted incubated sample of body fluid.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of retentate chromatography for resolving analytes in a sample. The methods involve adsorbing the analytes to a substrate under a plurality of different selectivity conditions, and detecting the analytes retained on the substrate by desorption spectrometry. The methods are useful in biology and medicine, including clinical diagnostics and drug discovery.

Abstract: A multiple analyte assaying device includes a casing having a pocket portion adapted to capture or contain a predetermined volume of fluid specimen to be assayed. Disposed within the casing is a sample receiving pad and one or more reagent test strips. The pocket portion of the casing includes a feed element having multiple feed inlets, or alternatively, a single feed slot. The feed element provides pressure against the sample receiving pad. The pressure against the pad and a small size of the inlet or inlets are effective in controlling a rate of fluid release of the specimen to the sample receiving pad. The casing includes observation windows or alternatively a clear plastic view area for enabling observation of reagent zones of the test strips. The device is structured and adapted to enable a technician to capture the appropriate volume of fluid specimen in the pocket portion by submerging or dipping a portion of the device into a fluid-filled collection container for a brief period of time.

Abstract: A test device for testing of analyte concentration in a fluid comprises: a housing (2) having an opening and containing a stack of sensors (16); a transport member (4) rotatably mounted in the opening of the housing, having an axis of rotation which spans the opening; a spring (24) which urges the stack against the transport member; and sealing means (20, 34) for making a moisture tight seal between the transport member and the sensors when the transport member is in a specified rotational position. An outer surface of the transport member has a recessed region (12) which is adapted to receive a single sensor from the stack. Rotation of the transport member with a sensor in the recessed region transports the sensor to a location where it can be connected to a meter (6, 8) and receive a drop of fluid to be tested.

Abstract: A test device and a kit for conducting an assay for the determination of an analyte in a sample comprises (i) a housing (1,2), and within said housing, (ii) a flow matrix (6) allowing liquid to be transported by capillary action and having at least one zone with immobilized capturing agent capable of directly or indirectly binding to the analyte, (iii) a liquid container (13) for sample liquid, and (iv) at least one liquid container for liquid other than sample liquid. The device further comprises (v) separation means (5) between the flow matrix (6) and the liquid containers (13), wherein said separation means (5) are mounted in movable relationship with the liquid containers to in a first position prevent liquid contact of the flow matrix (6) with the liquid containers (13), and in a second position permit liquid receiving contact of the flow matrix (6) with the liquid containers (13).

Abstract: A method has been developed to detect the levels of apolipoproteins A-1 and B in saliva, which is correlated with the levels of HDL and LDL in serum, respectively. In unstimulated saliva, the ration of Apo A to Apo B is correlated with the ration of HDL to LDL in serum. Albumin can be used to normalize the sample for dilution. The high degree of correlation in combination with a simple, quick test that can be performed at the site of collection provides a cost effective, patient friendly means to monitor an individual's risk of heart disease. In the preferred embodiment, saliva production is stimulated by means such as breath mint or tart solution (such as lemon) and the effect of dilution controlled by reference to albumin.

Abstract: The invention is a method of identifying the presence of, and monitoring, a disease state in a mammal which is associated with degradation of connective tissue in the mammal. The method detects and determines whether diagnostically or prognostically significant levels of YKL-40 protein and/or YKL-40 peptide are present in a biological sample. The method can be used, for example, to identify the presence of inflammatory joint disease or degeneration of connective tissue in organs. Serum YKL-40 levels as detected and quantified by the invention method are also suggestive of the prognosis for the length of survival in breast cancer patients following recurrence and/or metastasis of their cancers.

Abstract: An immunological test kit suitable for the rapid detection of ciguatoxin and related low molecular weight lipid polyether marine toxins in fish tissues in the field, home or laboratory. The test procedure utilizes a synthetic membrane laminated onto one end of a solid plastic stick, which is immersed into alcohol with a piece of fish tissue. The membrane is then removed and dried thoroughly, then placed in the suspension of mixed colored beads coated with anti-ciguatoxin. The membrane is then rinsed in water and the intensity of the color compared with a standard range of colors formed (0-3+). The color intensity is proportional to the concentration of toxin in the piece of tissue. The kit includes the synthetic membrane on a plastic stick, a suspension of mixed colored beads coated with anti-ciguatoxin antibody, testing instruments, and a supply of solvent.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for detecting the presence of semen on material. The system includes a solution of sodium phosphate, maleic acid, dye fast blue salt, naphthyl acid phosphate and deionized water, together with a solution dispenser and absorbent paper. The method for detecting the presence of semen on material using a semen detection solution and absorbent paper includes wetting the suspected semen stain or stain area on the material; blotting the suspected stain or stain area with absorbent paper so as to transfer the moisture from the wetted suspected semen stain or stain area on the material to the absorbent paper; drying the absorbent paper; and applying semen detection solution to the absorbent paper at the location of the transferred suspected stain or stain area.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining the fertility of mammals, in particular of humans, wherein a body or organ fluid is taken from a mammal, the afamin content is determined in this body or organ fluid, and the determined afamin content is compared with a reference value so as to determine the fertility, the use of afamin for determining the fertility of mammals, as well as a kit for carrying out this method.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an immunological detection method capable of performing detection of an analyte in a test sample, and a kit used therefor. There is provided an immunological detection method for detecting an analyte by using a water-absorbent substrate in which a capture region is positioned in a given region on a surface thereof, the capture region being immobilized with a first immunochemical component capable of specifically binding to the analyte, wherein the detection signal is amplified and a kit used therefor.

Abstract: A chemical composition including a moiety comprising a quencher (Q), a tethering element (T), and a ligand (L) that associates with and quenches a fluorescent polymer is disclosed. When an analyte sample is introduced, the ligand (L) binds to a target biological agent if it is present, thereby causing the QTL molecule to separate from the fluorescent polymer resulting in an increase in detected fluorescence. The same chemistry is advantageously employed in a competitive assay. An electric field can also be applied to separate the QTL molecule from the fluorescent polymer. A method for detecting targets for these methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A kit containing the reagents necessary for the qualitative or quantitative demonstration of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. A immunohistochemical staining procedure is employed which utilizes a primary monoclonal mouse antibody that selectively binds to EGFR. The primary antibodies bound to tissue antigens are detected using a peroxidase labeled polymer that is conjugated with secondary anti-mouse immunoglobulin antibodies. The enzymatic conversion of the subsequently applied chromogen results in formation of a visible reaction product at the site of the EGFR antigen. Following development of the chromogen, specimens may then be counterstained and coverslipped. Results are interpreted using a light microscope or other optical imaging device. The detection system is adapted for both manual and automated staining.

Abstract: An immunoassay, e.g. ELISA, method and kit for determining (preferably quantitatively) an analyte adsorbed at a surface or present in a liquid sample, comprising binding the analyte to a solid phase, attaching a marker to the analyte, and detecting marker attached to the solid-phase. The invention proposes to use a combination of marker and detection (e.g. an enzyme-substrate combination) which is capable of producing a precipitate on a solid phase which carries the marker and to detect the binding of analyte to the solid phase by in-situ determining the change in surface mass of the solid phase due to the formation of the precipitate. Ellipsometry is an example of a technique suitable for determining the change of surface mass of the solid phase, which could be made of a silicon- or chromium-sputtered glass slide The invention shortens the assay time and/or improves the assay sensitivity, and allows to measure extremely low surface concentrations of analytes of interest.

Abstract: The invention relates to a new dipstick assay for detecting and quantifying the content of an target analyte in a sample. The assay is particularly useful for example in the diagnosis and monitoring of alcoholism by the detection of asialo transferrin or carbohydrate free transferrin (CFT). Thus, provided is a dipstick for determining the content of a target analyte variant in a mixture of analyte variants in a sample, comprising: a) a sample application zone, b) a screening zone having an immobilised binding ligand having a binding affinity for a non-target analyte variant or varinats, c) a conjugate zone comprising a detector reagent, d) a reading zone for detection of said analyte.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel human Mab Fab, cloned by phage display, and its use in diagnostic and therapeutic methods. In particular the invention provides a method for analyzing the OxLDL components of atherosclerotic plaques in vivo and a means to determine their relative pathology. As the method is based on a human Fab rather than a mouse Mab, the progress or regression of the disease may be monitored over time. The antibody may also be used for the analysis of surgical or serum samples ex vivo for the presence of OxLDL. The antibody may also be used to target therapeutic agents to the site of atherosclerotic plaques or may have use as a therapeutic agent itself.

Abstract: A self-contained disposable device to be used in testing a body fluid, particularly urine. The device is in the form of a 3-ply composite comprising an intermediate ply and outer plies on opposite sides thereof. The intermediate ply has a cavity for retaining a test wick and one of the outer plies has a small body fluid inlet opening for body fluid to enter and wet the wick. Preferably an absorbent pad is located opposite the inlet opening. Different segments of the length of the wick are impregnated with a control and selection of test reagents. The device may be circular and serve as a liner for the transparent closure cap of a specimen container or in the form of a paddle to be swished in a specimen of a stream of a specimen. One of the outer plies is transparent at least over the impregnated portion of the test wick.

Abstract: A reagent for use in detecting the presence of aldehyde particularly in an aqueous solution, urine, or other body fluids comprising a solution sodium metabisulfite, phosphoric acid, basic fuchsin (BA 130) and deionized water. The sodium metabisulfite is present at about 8-12 grams, the phosphoric acid is present at 10 milliliters, the basic fuchsin is present at about 4.8-5.2 grams and the deionized water is present at about 995-1005 milliliters. A test kit including a sealed container having a predetermined amount of the reagent therein, a dispenser for obtaining a predetermined amount of a specimen to be tested and depositing it in the container and a color chart for comparing the color of the combined reagent and specimen after waiting period of between 2-5 minutes.

Abstract: Novel peptides which are epitopes of the human 60 kDa heat shock protein (hsp60) may be used for the diagnosis and treatment of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Pharmaceutical compositions containing such peptides and kits for use in diagnosis of IDDM are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and an apparatus to provide a dynamic matrix system for synthesizing a plurality of chemical compounds simultaneously, i.e. in parallel, and to synthesize a series of plurality of simultaneously synthesized chemical compounds sequentially, i.e. in series. The apparatus includes a base support structure, a physical chemistry teabag support structure, a plurality of physical chemistry teabags and a fixed-reactant/liquid reactant mixture shifting (changing) mechanism. The base support structure has a plurality of reaction vessels arranged in at least a two dimensional predetermined array. The physical chemistry teabag support structure is adapted to hold and support a plurality of physical chemistry teabags arranged in at least a two dimensional predetermined teabag array, at least partially coinciding with the base support structure reaction vessel array. The teabags have at least one predetermined fixed reactant thereon.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel fluorescent particle including a core or carrier particle having on its surface a plurality of smaller polymeric particles or nanoparticles, which are stained with different fluorescent dyes. When excited by a light source they are capable of giving off multiple fluorescent emissions simultaneously, which is useful for multiplexed analysis of a plurality of analytes in a sample. The coupled complex particles carrying on their surface fluorescent nanoparticles, methods of preparing such polymer particles, and various applications and methods of using such particles are claimed.

Abstract: Rapid electrochemical verification of the amplification of DNA by a polymerase chain reaction in a small sample of the PCR product.

Abstract: A highly sensitive and convenient test method, composition and device for the facile calorimetric determination of total dissolved solids in an aqueous sample having a low specific gravity is presented. The reagent composition comprises the mixture of a complex of a positively charged polyelectrolyte and a negatively charged indicator material, and an appropriate buffer system for maintaining the test system environment at an exact pH depending upon the indicator material selected. A preferable embodiment of this test system comprises the incorporation of the test composition into or with a solid state matrix material such as bibulous paper. The test system is particularly useful in the field testing of potable and recreational waters.

Abstract: A device and method for filtering a biologically derived sample and for mixing the sample with a reagent, comprising a fluid container defining a reservoir compartment and including a container outlet, a filter and a fluid flow-through matrix disposed in a flow path between the reservoir compartment and the container outlet. Water-soluble, dried reagent is retained on the matrix. Means is provided for urging sample in an aqueous liquid in the reservoir compartment through the filter and matrix and out the container outlet. Pressure is applied to the sample in an aqueous liquid in the reservoir compartment to cause the sample to flow in liquid through the filter and matrix and out of the container for analysis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting a fluid specimen, locally analyzing the specimen to qualitatively detect specified chemical components at concentrations above threshold levels, and providing machine readable test results for facilitating data collection and reporting. The apparatus includes an assaying device comprised of a cup for collecting a fluid specimen and a cap carrying at least one test strip for visually reacting to one or more specified chemical components in the specimen. The cap also carries an aliquot delivery mechanism for forcing an aliquot of the fluid specimen onto the test strip. The assaying device is preferably configured to interact with a reader device capable of reading the reaction of the test strip to produce a data output.

Abstract: The invention concerns a home kit and a method for detection of the presence of a fecal parasite in a stool.

Abstract: A sensor element is provided including a polymer exhibiting a measurable property from the group of luminescence and electrical conductivity, the polymer being complexed with a unit including a recognition element, a tethering element and a property-altering element bound thereto so as to alter the measurable property, the unit being susceptible of subsequent separation from the polymer upon exposure to an agent having an affinity for binding to the recognition element whereupon the separation of the unit from the polymer results in a detectable change in the measurable property.

Abstract: This invention is a method of identifying the presence of, and monitoring, a disease state in a mammal which is associated with degradation of connective tissue in the mammal. The method detects and determines whether diagnostically or prognostically significant levels of YKL-40 protein and/or YKL-40 peptide are present in a biological sample. The method can be used, for example, to identify the presence of inflammatory or degenerative joint disease or degeneration of connective tissue in organs. Serum YKL-40 levels as detected and quantified by the inventive method are also suggestive of the prognosis for the length of survival in breast cancer patients following recurrence and/or metastasis of their cancers. The figure shows the elution position of substantially pure serum YKL-40 on a gel filtration column.

Abstract: An analytical device comprising a surfactant-treated porous reaction membrane having an exposed sample-contacting surface and at least one receptor area located in a limited region of the exposed sample-contacting surface. The limited region has a higher concentration of surfactant than areas of the sample-contacting surface that are peripheral to the limited region. To make the device, a surfactant-containing solution comprising at least 0.2% surfactant is added to the reaction membrane and allowed to dry. Then, a receptor reagent is added to a limited region of the reaction membrane. In the assay, the surfactant causes the liquid sample to flow faster through the portion(s) of the reaction membrane where receptor molecules are located.

Abstract: The present invention relates to male infertility, and in particular to assays for predicting fertility in animals including human and bovines. In some embodiments, semen samples are evaluated by measuring the amount of ubiquitin in the sample, and in particular by measuring the extent of ubiquitination spermatozoa. Increased levels of ubiquitination in a sample are correlated with lower fertility. Ubiquitination may be assayed by several methods, including immunocytochemical measurement, ELISA, and flow cytometry.

Abstract: In qualitative or quantitative assays which employ a test device comprising a test strip pretreated for detection of a specified target analyte dissolved in a liquid medium, the presence of solid, semisolid and/or colloidal materials in the liquid medium may interfere with the assay results. The present invention involves collecting the sample from a flowing or quiescent pool of liquid also containing solid, semisolid or colloidal material with a swab comprised of a handle and a mass of fibrous material or foamed, open cell material which, when immersed in and thoroughly wetted by the liquid, entraps solid, semisolid and/or colloidal material and delivers only the liquid to the sample receiving zone of the test strip.

Abstract: Nucleic acids encoding a new family of chemokines, the CX3C family, from a mammal, reagents related thereto, including specific antibodies, and purified proteins are described. Methods of using said reagents and related diagnostic kits are also provided.

Abstract: A system for producing multiple diagnostic test elements has a support (1) with an analytical region (3) to which diagnostic test spots (8) are applied, one or several stop edges (11-13) for each direction in space for positioning the support, a first holding unit (10I) into which the support is inserted and positioned by means of the one or more stop edges, a first printing head (20I) arranged above the holding unit (10) for applying drops of a first liquid to the analytical region of the support (1), a first positioning unit which laterally displaces and positions the first holding unit, a second holding unit (10II) into which the support is inserted and positioned by means of the one or more stop edges, a second printing head (20II) arranged above the second holding unit for applying drops of a second liquid to the analytical region of the support (1), a second positioning unit which laterally displaces and positions the second holding unit, a transport unit (41) and a control unit.

Abstract: Method and compositions for determining oxidative stress in a subject are provided in which presence of an aldehyde in a biological fluid is correlated with an oxidative stress in a subject. A test reagent having a pH regulator, a reducing agent, and an aldehyde-reactive chromogen is mixed with the biological fluid, and the color of the resulting aldehyde-modified chromogen is correlated with the oxidative stress.

Abstract: A method to assess hypertension by measuring the amount of free and conjugated hydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (DHETs) and metabolites of DHETs, which are metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA) epoxygenases and epoxide hydrolases, in a biological sample which contains the DHETs (using any methods including GC/MS or ELISA) is disclosed. The method further included determining the amount of molecules containing a DHET-specific epitope immunoreactive with antibodies produced against DHETs present in the sample. This amount is compared with a control sample(s). Hypertension is determined through the comparison wherein the amount of increase of free and conjugated DHETs and metabolites of DHETs in the sample isolated from an organism. The present invention also provides a method to assess catalytic activity of AA epoxygenases using immunoassays by subtracting the amounts of NADPH-independent epoxyeicosatriencic acids (EETs) from total (NADPH-dependent+independent) EETs.