Oxaloacetate (OAA) is a pivotal intermediate in intermediary metabolism, participating in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and gluconeogenesis. Due to its instability and low abundance, accurate quantification of OAA in biological samples has historically been challenging. Recent advances in assay kit technology have enabled sensitive, rapid, and reliable measurement of OAA, facilitating new insights into metabolic regulation and disease states.

Measurement Formats

• Colorimetric Assays: Measure absorbance at 570 nm, with detection at low concentration.
• Fluorometric Assays: Measure fluorescence, with higher sensitivity.

Sample Compatibility

These kits are validated for a wide range of sample types, including animal tissues, cultured cells, serum, plasma, and saliva.

Applications in Intermediary Metabolism

• Studying TCA Cycle Flux: Quantifying OAA helps elucidate TCA cycle activity and its integration with gluconeogenesis, amino acid metabolism, and anaplerotic/cataplerotic processes.
• Metabolic Disease Research: Alterations in OAA levels can indicate metabolic dysregulation, as seen in diabetes, liver disease, and mitochondrial disorders.
• Drug and Nutrient Evaluation: Researchers use these kits to assess the impact of drugs, nutrients, or genetic modifications on intermediary metabolism.

Oxaloacetate assay kits have transformed the study of intermediary metabolism by enabling precise measurement of this critical but elusive metabolite. Their use supports advances in basic research, clinical diagnostics, and therapeutic development.