Effect of Freezing on γ-Aminobutyric Acid Levels in Human Cerebrospinal Fluid |
| |
| Authors: | R. J. Abbott,J. Keidan,I. F. Pye,S. R. Nahorski&dagger |
| |
| Affiliation: | Department of Neurology, Leicester Royal Infirmary, University of Leicester, Leicester, U.K.;Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Leicester, Leicester, U.K. |
| |
| Abstract: | Abstract Using a radioreceptor assay, the concentration of γ -aminobutyric acid (GABA) in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was found to be elevated significantly following a single deep-freeze to –70°C and thaw. Mean CSF GABA (± SD) in unfrozen CSF was 173 ± 73 pmol/ml ( n = 24). After a single deep-freeze, the mean level was 243 ± 106 pmol/ml ( p < 0.02). Subsequent freeze-thaw cycles resulted in further irregular and unpredictable elevations in CSF GABA. Mean level after two freezes was 379 ± 125 pmol/ml and after three freezes 654 ± 411 pmol/ml. These changes could result in the incorrect interpretation of results in patients suffering from neurological diseases. |
| |
| Keywords: | Freezing γ-Aminobutyric acid Human CSF |
|
|
