PREPARATION OF STABILIZER-FREE GOLD SOLS AND THEIR CONFIGURATION INTO A GELATIN-COATED PROTEASE-INDICATING HOMOGENEOUS (ONE STEP) ASSAY

摘要

A method of detecting protease activity in a sample. The method includes contacting the sample with a composition containing (i) a dispersion of gold nanoparticles, whose surface is coated with a gelatin; and (ii) CaCl2. A color change of the composition, a turbidity change of the composition, or both, upon the contacting of the sample with the composition, indicates the presence of protease activity in the sample. A kit adapted for performing the method. The kit includes (i) a vial containing a composition comprising CaCl2 and a dispersion of gold nanoparticles whose surface is coated with a gelatin; (ii) a cap configured for attachment to the vial, comprising a rubber septum; and (iii) a sampling device configured for collecting a fluid from a wound.