LimulusamöbozytenLysat

Limulus amebocyte lysate, often abbreviated as LAL, is a reagent derived from the blood cells (amebocytes) of the horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus. These amebocytes contain a unique clotting system that reacts strongly to bacterial endotoxins, specifically lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.

The LAL test is a sensitive and widely used method for detecting and quantifying endotoxins in a variety of samples. Its primary application is in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries to ensure the sterility and safety of injectable drugs, vaccines, and medical implants. Endotoxin contamination can lead to serious health consequences, including fever and shock. The LAL assay provides a rapid and reliable way to detect even minute amounts of these pyrogenic substances.

The test can be performed using several methods, including gel clot, turbidimetric, and chromogenic assays. Each method relies on the enzymatic cascade triggered by endotoxin binding to components within the LAL reagent, leading to the formation of a clot, an increase in turbidity, or a color change, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the LAL test make it an indispensable tool for quality control and regulatory compliance in healthcare.