SPHINGOMYELINASE
Niemann-Pick Disease Type 1 A&B
BIOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Also see: Niemann-Pick Disease Type A - DNA Analysis

Description:

The deficiency of sphingomyelinase causes Type I (or Type A or B) Niemann-Pick disease. This protocol uses a natural substrate, [14C]-sphingomyelin (the label is in the fatty acid component). The enzyme removes the fatty acid moiety. The activity is determined by counting after the unreacted substrate is removed by precipitation with bovine serum albumin. For Ashkenazic Jewish individuals, Niemann-Pick Disease Type A testing is also available through DNA analysis (see Niemann-Pick Disease Type A).

Specimen Requirements:

The assay is performed on white blood cells or cultured fibroblasts. For white blood cells, draw 7-10 ml in a yellow top (ACD) tube and ship to us on wet ice in an insulated container by overnight express. Sample must arrive at our location within 48 hrs. For fibroblasts, send two T25 flasks of confluent cells in an insulated container by overnight carrier.

Normal Range:

Skin Fibroblasts: 1.1-8.0 nmol/min/mg protein
White Blood Cells: 30-120 pmol/min/mg protein

Turnaround Time:

White Blood Cells: 2 weeks
Skin fibroblasts assays are growth dependent.

CPT Codes and Prices:

Skin Fibroblast Culture: 82657, 84155, 88240, 88233
White Blood Cells: 82657, 84155

Shipping Information

Forms:

>> Biochemical Requisition

Test Codes:

Skin Fibroblast Culture: 4607
White Blood Cells: 4608