Abstract

A simple assay for some proteolytic enzymes has been developed which can be performed directly on the surface of a cellulose nitrate filter used to capture the analyte during workplace monitoring for health and safety purposes. Following air sampling the analysis is performed on the filter which is retained within the air sampler. This involves two steps: first, a 15 min incubation in which the captured enzyme is dissolved and then digests an alkaline-phosphatase-labelled antibody immobilised as a small dot on the surface of the filter; and second, is a 10 min incubation with substrate solution, which follows an in situ wash under a vacuum. During the incubation colour develops on the spot at the location of the immobilised enzyme–antibody conjugate. The intensity of the spot can be assessed visually within the sampler to ascertain the presence or absence of captured enzyme, or alternatively quantitative results can be obtained using an optical scanner. The limit of detection is 5 ng per filter for subtilisin (20 ng for visual discrimination between this standard and the zero). The assay is stable to the effects of ambient air sampling at 3 l min⁻¹ for 18 h.