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Effect of Freezing on γ‐Aminobutyric Acid Levels in Human Cerebrospinal Fluid
Author(s) -
Abbott R. J.,
Keidan J.,
Pye I. F.,
Nahorski S. R.
Publication year - 1981
Publication title -
journal of neurochemistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.75
H-Index - 229
eISSN - 1471-4159
pISSN - 0022-3042
DOI - 10.1111/j.1471-4159.1981.tb04493.x
Subject(s) - cerebrospinal fluid , gamma aminobutyric acid , aminobutyric acid , medicine , endocrinology , chemistry , chromatography , biology , biochemistry , receptor
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.