DIAGNOSTIC IN VITRO METHOD

摘要

The invention relates to a diagnostic in vitro method for determining the activity of thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) in individuals to be examined, characterised in that the concentration of urothione and/or jukathione in bodily fluids is determined. The invention further relates to a diagnostic in vitro method for determining the TPMT activity in cellular extracts of test subjects of any origin, characterised in that molybdenum cofactor (Moco) and/or degradation stages of Moco are used as substrates for the reaction and the formed amount of jukathione and/or urothione is determined. Finally, the invention relates to a diagnostic in vitro method, wherein urothione and/or jukathione is used as a biomarker for increased susceptibility to one or more certain diseases, which biomarker is identified in bodily fluids and/or cellular extracts.