Folate (whole blood/red cells)

Description: 
The Architect folate assay is a chemiluminescent microparticle folate binding protein assay for the quantitative determination of folate
Clinical details: 
Folates (vitamin B9) serve as cofactors in the enzymatic transfer of single carbon units in a variety of metabolic pathways. Folates are necessary for nucleic acid and mitochondrial protein synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and other cellular processes that involve single carbon transfers. Folate deficiency can be caused by low dietary intake, malabsorption due to gastrointestinal diseases, inadequate utilization due to enzyme deficiencies of folate antagonist therapy, drugs, and excessive folate demand, such as during pregnancy. Low serum folate levels reflect the first stage of folate negative balance, and can precede tissue depletion. Low red-blood cell folate (whole blood) values reflect the second stage of negative folate balance, and more closely correlate with tissue levels and megaloblastic anaemia.
Reference range: 

126-750

Synonyms or keywords: 
Folate, Vitamin B9, folic acid, pteroylglutamic acid
Units: 
ug/L
Sample type and Volume required: 
whole blood EDTA
Minimum 0.5mL
Call in advance: 
No
Turnaround time: 
4 days
Special sample instructions: 

Protect from light, hematocrit must determined upon arrival

Storage and transport: 
Protect from light, do not freeze
Contacts:
Nutristasis Unit at St Thomas'
020 7188 6815 / 89543
St Thomas' Hospital
North Wing - 4th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH

Laboratory opening times
Monday - Friday 09.00 - 17.00
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 23/03/2017