| abstract |
An improved micromethod for the quantitative determination of endotoxins with Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (L.A.L.) reagent is based on the discovery that if L.A.L. reagent and a sample containing microquantities of endotoxin are incubated in a capillary tube, a clot will be formed in the plug preventing any outflow of liquids when low hydrostatic pressure is applied. Increasing the pressure will eventually force out the clot plugging the capillary and the liquid will suddenly erupt giving a clear yes-no indication of the presence of endotoxin. The hydrostatic pressure indicated to cause this eruption is a relatively precise indication of the extent of clotting which, in turn, is indicative of the concentration of endotoxin in the liquid. A kit which can be used to perform this test is also disclosed. |