Glucagon (Special Request Assay)

The measurement of glucagon is helpful in the investigation of unusual cases of insulin resistant diabetes mellitus and in clinical research situations focused on factors affecting glucose metabolism.

Glucagonomas have been identified in dogs. A dermatological presentation has been associated with Glucagonoma in humans also known as necrolytic migratory erythema or hepato-cutaneous syndrome. In dogs, this skin condition usually has a hepatic origin.

Sample Preparation for the Assay of Plasma Glucagon

Blood must be collected into iced glass tubes containing EDTA as an anticoagulant. The tubes must be immersed in an ice-bath at 2 – 8°C throughout the entire collection and handling procedure.

Immediately following collection add 5000 Kallikrein Inactivating Units (KIU) per 10mL of whole blood in the form of Trayslol (500uL) or Aprotinin (1mg). Mix gently but thoroughly and keep chilled (on ice) until separation.

Centrifuge the samples in a refrigerated centrifuge at 2000g to separate the plasma. Separate the plasma using a glass pasteur pipette and transfer the plasma into glass tubes (aliquots of 0.6mL required) and freeze immediately. Store the plasma frozen at less than -10°C until assayed.

Samples must be transported to the laboratory frozen and remain frozen until assayed. Dry ice is recommended. Lipaemic and haemolysed samples may affect the assay so great care is needed when blood sampling to ensure samples do not become haemolysed. Courier transport is essential.

At least 1mL of EDTA plasma is required for the assay.

PLEASE NOTE AT THE CURRENT TIME WE ARE UNABLE TO PERFORM GLUCAGON ANALYSIS DUE TO THE WITHDRAWAL OF THE METHOD WE HAD VALIDATED.
WE WILL BE LOOKING AT OTHER METHODS FOR THE FUTURE.