Phospholipids are amphiphilic molecules with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts. As major components of cell membranes, phospholipids play important structural and functional roles. Phospholipids are also components of lipoproteins, contributing to the stabilization of lipids in the blood, are required for the synthesis of cholesterol esters, and play an important role in lipid metabolism. By examining the phospholipids in the blood, the state of liver function and related conditions can be assessed.
LabAssay™ Phospholipid is based on an enzymatic colorimetric method using the Trinder reagent (choline oxidase-DAOS method). Because it uses phospholipase D, endogenous triglycerides, free glycerol, or inorganic phosphate do not significantly affect the assay. With the use of the enzymes, this kit provides a convenient method for measuring phospholipids (lecithin, sphingomyelin, lysolecithin) in a microplate format.