Description:

The electrochemical detection of alpha-feto protein based on novel gold nanoparticles- poly (propylene imine) dendrimer platform is reported. The platform was prepared by co-electrodeposition of gold nanoparticles and generation 3 poly (propylene imine) dendrimer on a glassy carbon electrode. Each modifying step was characterised by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electrochemical measurements showed that the platform was stable, conducting and exhibited reversible electrochemistry. Results obtained from the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy interrogation in [Fe (CN) 63−/4−] redox probe showed a marked reduction in charge transfer resistance (Rct) after each modification step. The immunosensor was prepared by immobilisation of a probe anti-alpha feto protein (AFP) on the platform for 3 hrs at 35 °C followed by blocking the surface with bovine serum albumin to minimise non-specific binding.

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is sometimes difficult to diagnose. This report proposes the use of Alpha-Feto-Protein (AFP) values in vaginal secretions for diagnostic tests. Our investigation took place in two separate phases. The first phase validated the AFP test using an immuno-enzymatic assay method and determined a threshold value from a sample of 167 female patients (Group 1: 133 patients with an extremely low probability of PROM, and Croup 2: 54 patients with confirmed PROM). In the second phase the test was applied to a sample of 145 female patients (Group 3) with suspected, but unconfirmed, PROM. Results from alpha-feto-protein (AFP) evaluation were compared with data obtained from clinical. Echo graphic and other tests. For the two first groups, 1 and 2, sensitivity and specificity was in the 98%) to 99% confidence level. For Group 3, sensitivity and specificity results at the 30 μg/1 threshold value were 94.5′% and 95.4%) respectively. Quantitative measurement of AFP determined by immuno-enzymatic assay of vaginal secretions with a threshold of 30μgil is a reliable, simple and rapid diagnostic test. Results obtained are significantly better than the measurement of ph. The determination of prolactin, and more practical than daimio-oxidase (DAO) assays.

An unaccountably high maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein level at 16–18 weeks of pregnancy is associated with increased risk to the fetus in a continuing pregnancy. Thirty-one pregnancies with confirmed high levels at 16–18 weeks produced 10 preterm live and 8 live born small-for-dates babies and 3 early neonatal deaths. Although the incidence of neural tube defects is decreasing, routine assay of maternal serum AFP at 16–18 weeks should be continued to give possible warning of extra risk to the fetus.

With Regards

Michael
Journal Coordinator
Global Journal of Research and Review