Abstract: Methods of assaying for the presence of enzymatically active hydrolases (i.e., hydrolytic enzymes) in a sample or specimen are disclosed. In particular, a method of detecting candidiasis by assaying for the presence of enzymatically active aspartic protease in a sample is provided. In these methods, a sample or specimen is contacted with a solid support. The solid support with which the sample is contacted has a reporter enzyme (i.e., a signal generating enzyme) immobilized thereon. The reporter enzyme is immobilized on the solid support in a manner such that it is released from the solid support upon action of the enzymatically active hydrolase if the enzymatically active hydrolase is, in fact, present in the sample. The sample after having been contacted with the solid support is combined with an indicator. The indicator is any chemical species which is susceptible to a detectable change, usually a change in color, upon action of the reporter enzyme.

Abstract: A dry, self-contained test device for assaying for the presence of an enzymatically active hydrolase in a sample is disclosed. The test device combines a reporter enzyme immobilized on a solid support, an indicator, and all other reagents and components necessary to achieve a detectable indication of the presence or absence of the enzymatically active hydrolase in the sample. Preferred devices contain positive and negative controls as well.

Abstract: Methods of assaying the presence of enzymatically active hydrolases (i.e., hydrolytic enzymes) in a sample or specimen are disclosed. In particular, a method of detecting candidiasis by assaying for the presence of enzymatically active aspartic protease in a sample is provided. In these methods, a sample or specimen is contacted with a solid support. The solid support with which the sample is contacted has a reporter enzyme (i.e., a signal generating enzyme) immobilized thereon. The reporter enzyme is immobilized on the solid support in a manner such that it is released from the solid support upon action of the enzymatically active hydrolase if the enzymatically active hydrolase is, in fact, present in the sample. The sample after having been contacted with the solid support is combined with an indicator. The indicator is any chemical species which is susceptible to a detectable change, usually a change in color, upon action of the reporter enzyme.