N-Ethylmaleimide prevents destruction of corticotropin (ACTH) in plasma.
Addition of N-ethylmaleimide, an inhibitor of proteolytic enzymes, to samples for plasma corticotropin determinations prevents destruction of the hormone at room temperature for at least 72 h. A concentration of 125 mg per liter of blood is effective. N-Ethylmaleimide is not so effective in preventing corticotropin degradation in whole blood. Use of the inhibitor should make plasma corticotropin determinations more practical and reliable.
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000097:blood*; D000328:Adult; D001793:Blood Preservation; D005033:Ethylmaleimide / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010949:Plasma / Q000032:analysis*; D013997:Time Factors
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; D005033:Ethylmaleimide