Methods for the estimation of three vitamin dependent red cell enzymes.

The estimation of vitamin dependent red cell enzymes before and after in vitro vitamin supplement offers a new approach to the assessment of vitamin nutritional state. To facilitate the clinical application of the principle involved, enzyme assay and aspartate aminotransferase have been made suitable for routine use. Reference ranges have been obtained for enzyme activity and vitamin effect, and the coefficients of variation for the techniques under normal use have been calculated. The assays are useful for hospital patients suspected of poor vitamin B nutrition i.e. the elderly, and chronic alcoholics.