Fluorescence Assay For Intestinal Permeability

Background

Currently, techniques such as LC-MS/MS and enzymology are used to assess gut permeability. This invention (along with the related invention linked here) allow rapid and inexpensive assessment of gut permeability using equipment readily available in small gastroenterology labs. 

Technology Description

This invention uses organoboranes in a lactulose/mannitol assay to assess small intestinal gut permeability. Subjects are fed lactulose and mannitol and their urine collected. Small intestinal permeability is assessed using the lactulose/riboflavin ratio in biological samples.

 Specifically, a subject is fed riboflavin and one or both of lactulose and mannitol 0-24 hours before collection of a sample (e.g. a urine sample). An organoboronic compound (which can include an organoboronic acid such as viologen) coupled to a fluorophore is contacted with the sample. The fluroescence in the mixture is measured and normalized relative to riboflavin fluorescence. The amount of the lactulose and/or mannitol is then quantified using this normalized fluorescence emission. 

 This assay can be performed on a simple fluorimeter and therefore makes this type of analysis more accessible. The process can readily be combined with related technology 2014-918 which is attached. 

Applications

Gut permeability diagnostics

Measurement of sugar concentration in solution

Advantages

Non-invasive

Analytes accessible via urine

Patients are fed the analytes, analytes are safe, edible sugars.  

Readily performed on a fluorimeter

Intellectual Property Information

Related Materials

• Rapid small intestinal permeability assay based on riboflavin and lactulose detected by bis-boronic acid appended benzyl viologens