An accelerated enzyme immunoassay for human choriogonadotropin in urine, involving reflow of specimen through capillary tubes.

A very rapid and sensitive assay for human choriogonadotropin (hCG) has been developed involving two beta-subunit-specific monoclonal antibodies. In the assay the test specimen is passed backward and forward (reflow) through a monoclonal-antibody-coated capillary tube for 1 min, then incubated for 1 min with a second monoclonal antibody conjugated to urease (EC 3.5.1.5). After addition of a urease substrate solution, 10 int. units of hCG per liter can be detected visually within 5 min, which compares very favorably with other currently available hCG assay procedures. Advantages of the reflow/capillary tube assay system and optimization of the test procedure are discussed.