An assay method for antidiuretic hormone based on a more specific response index.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Numerous methods have been proposed over the past 25 years for the assay of posterior pituitary antidiuretic hormone (A.D.H.). Many of these have recently been reviewed by Stein (1952). Most of the methods can be classified in two categories according to the type of index of response used. One category includes the methods in which increment in urinary excretion of an individual solute, usually chloride, has been related to the A.D.H. content of the administered material (Anselmino, 1932; Ham, 1942, 1943; Ralli, 1950). The second category consists of methods where the index of response is change in rate of urine flow (Gibbs, 1930; Burn, 1931; Theobald, 1934; Oilman, 1937; Walker, 1939; Robinson, 1940; Jeffers, 1942; Birnie, 1950; Ames, 1950; Stein, 1952; Ginsburg, 1953; Dicker, 1953). Neither of these response indices can be considered specific. Increments in urinary solute excretion, particularly chloride and sodium, are only indirectly related to A.D.H. action (Leaf, 1953).