Automated analysis for taurine in biological fluids and tissues.

We have developed an automated method of analysis for taurine, based on incorporating an ion-exchange chromatography column into the continuous-flow AutoAnalyzer (Technicon). After removal of proteins and peptides by dialysis, taurine is selectively eluted from an ion-exchange column and reacted with o-phthaldialdehyde to yield a fluorescent compound. The advantages of this method are: full automation with no need for sample deproteinization or cleanup; sensitivity, detecting as little as 5 mumol/L; speed (20 samples per hour); and flexibility. It can be used for assaying taurine in urine, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and tissue homogenates. This method can be adapted for assays of other metabolites.