| abstract |
Novel assay kits and methods are described for the detection and determination of the severity of disease conditions associated with elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The AST levels are determined by reaction of the AST with cysteine sulfinic acid (CSA) substrate in the presence of a sulfite-reactive dye compound that is substantially nonreactive with AST or CSA, such as a triarylmethine dye. Sulfite ion formed by the reaction of AST with CSA causes a calorimetric indication of AST that can be related to a predetermined stage of disease. |