| Field | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mfr No | |
| Assay Time | |
| Detection Method | |
| Product Type | |
| Sample Type(s) | Urine, Serum, etc |
| Shipping | |
| Species | |
| Storage |
Overview
For quantitative determination of formate and evaluation of drug effects on its metabolism. The assay uses OD565nm for signal readout. Compatible sample input includes Urine, Serum, etc. Typical stated assay timing is Approximately 60 min.
Key elements and design rationale
- Readout format: OD565nm supports plate-based signal acquisition and consistent comparison across matched samples.
- Sample compatibility: The stated sample scope includes Urine, Serum, etc, which is useful when aligning matrix type with calibration and control design.
- Analytical range context: The supplied specifications include a stated detection limit of 50 µM for interpreting low-signal samples.
- Feature emphasis: Fast and sensitive. Use of 10 µL sample. Linear detection range 0.050 to 5 mM Formate in a 96-well plate assay.
Additional feature notes highlight Convenient. The procedure involves adding a single working reagent and reading the absorbance after 60 minutes. Room temperature assay. No 37°C heater is needed; High-throughput. “Add-mix-read” type assay. Can be readily automated as a high-throughput 96-well plate assay for thousands of samples per day. Available format information for this listing includes 100 Tests.
Biological background
This product is centered on measurement of formate within the matrices described for the assay. In practice, datasets from this type of format are typically interpreted by comparing relative signal, activity, or abundance across matched control and experimental groups rather than relying on a single value in isolation. Careful alignment of sample matrix, incubation window, and calibration strategy is important when comparing results across plates, operators, or study days.
More details
FORMATE (HCOO–) is the anion derived from formic acid, the simplest carboxylic acid. It is also the metabolic byproduct of formaldehyde metabolism in our body and the eventual metabolic byproduct of methanol which is first broken down to formaldehyde. At high levels, formate is neurotoxic to the central nervous system and can cause blindness, coma, and death. Although naturally present in the body at low levels, elevated levels of formate may be used as an indicator of formaldehyde exposure and methanol poisoning. BioAssay Systems formate assay kit is based on formate dehydrogenase catalyzed oxidation of formate, which generates carbon dioxide and NADH that reduces a formazan (MTT) dye. The intensity of the reduced MTT, measured at 565 nm, is directly proportional to the formate concentration in the sample.
Detection method
Colorimetric (OD 565 nm).
Detection limit and analytical sensitivity
Reported detection limit: 50 µM.
Procedures and timing
Stated procedure or timing information: Approximately 60 min.
Research relevance and current trends
- Plate-based quantification and side-by-side group comparison remain central use cases for this assay format.
- The product notes emphasize multi-sample throughput, making it relevant for screening-oriented and larger batch comparison studies.
- The description supports intervention-focused study designs in which researchers compare baseline and perturbed conditions.
Common research applications
- Quantify formate in urine, Serum by OD565 nm readout.
- Compare treatment or phenotype groups using matched urine, Serum handling.
- Monitor time-course or pre/post changes in urine, Serum across study conditions.
Interpretation is usually strongest when signal changes are assessed alongside matrix-matched controls, replicate agreement, and the assay's stated analytical window.
Notes for experimental interpretation
- Matrix composition, background signal, and sample handling can influence apparent response; compare like-with-like whenever possible.
- Use appropriate blanks, controls, and replicate wells to distinguish biological differences from plate, reagent, or handling variability.
How do I store the kit?
The Kit is shipped on ice. Upon receiving, please keep the kit in the freezer (-20 to -10°C)
Can I store unused reagents for future use?
Yes, unused reagents can be stored according to the assay protocol. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of reagents should be avoided, especially with enzymes; aliquot enzyme for storage to avoid unnecessary freeze/thaw cycles. Working reagent should be made fresh each day.
What samples have you tested?
We have tested the kit thoroughly on human urine. We have also tested the kit on human serum and bovine serum. The assay has been tested on typical concentrations of EDTA, Heparin, and Citrate used for anticoagulation in plasma and they did not show any significant interferences.
Do I need to use a standard or standard curve with each assay run?
Yes, it is highly recommended
Will the assay kit work in a 384 well plate, cuvette, etc?
Yes, the assay can be used in any standard plate and cuvette. Simply adjust the total reaction volume to your container. For 384 well use 20-90 μL, for a cuvette use 1 mL (some narrow cuvettes can hold 200-500 μL).
Does the assay work with saliva samples?
Yes, the assay has been tested and works with porcine saliva samples. Other saliva samples should work similarly.
For laboratories requiring additional technical capacity, we provide scientific support services including assay execution, method guidance, product sourcing, and customization to align the assay with specific experimental objectives. If you need assistance selecting the appropriate kit configuration, adapting the workflow to your application, or identifying related research services, please click Talk to a Scientist, email support@biohippo.com, or review our Research Services; a member of our scientific team will follow up with recommendations tailored to your study.
