Microcystins and the structurally related nodularins are toxins produced by cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). Acute poisoning in humans and animals can be caused by these toxins and in several cases has led to death. These toxins inhibit liver function and might act as tumor promoters. Many different structural variants (congeners) are found, with the most common variant being microcystin-LR. To protect public health, the WHO has proposed a provisional upper limit for microcystin-LR of 1 ppb in drinking water. Other methods to quantitate microcystins, such as HPLC or the PPA, require expensive instrumentation and complex procedures. This immunoassay test kit allows for detection of microcystins at ppt levels, with inexpensive equipment and fast and easily learned procedures.

This product functions as an immunological laboratory test (immunoassay) for quantification of microcystins in water.  Key features of test kit:

• Uses a polyclonal antibody that binds both microcystins and a microcystin-enzyme conjugate. Microcystins in the sample compete with the microcystin-enzyme conjugate for a limited number of antibody binding sites.
• Convenient format uses 12 mm diameter coated tubes that may be read in most tube readers or spectrophotomers at 450 nm.
• In the presence of bound microcystin-enzyme conjugate, a clear substrate is converted to a blue form, with the intensity of the color inversely proportional to the microcystin concentration.
• Measures concentrations ranging from 0.15 ppb to 5 ppb; higher concentration samples can be diluted to fall within this range.
• Total time for measurements is about 2 hours or less.