The Measurement of Progesterone in Human Plasma by Competitive Protein-Binding Radioassay

Abstract

A method for the determination of progesterone in human plasma by competitive protein-binding is described. This method consists of extraction with petroleum ether, HTLC to purify the extracts and CBG-assay. The reliability criteria of the complete procedure are presented. The method is suitable for application to peripheral blood levels at all stages of the menstrual cycle and in men. The plasma values of progesterone in men and during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle were 0.026 ± 0.014, 0.12 ± 0.02 and 0.83 ± 0.58 (S.D.) µg/100 ml, respectively.

The Description and Evaluation of a Competitive Protein-Binding Radioassay of 17α-Hydroxyprogesterone in Human Plasma

“…Because of continuing interest in the circadian rhythm of the hypo thalamic-pituitary Leydig cell system, we have measured the plasma 17-OHP and progesterone every 4 h in 5 normal men for a period of 24 h. Plasma progesterone was measured by competitive protein-binding radioassay as described by F assorra and L uisi [9]. The results of these studies are re ported in figure 3.…”

“…As we have already referred [9], a rigid control of the procedure used and an extreme care in carrying them out is essential in competitive protein binding radioassay. This in order to reduce the blanks and to obtain an adequate precision.…”