Test ID: ALKI
Alkaline Phosphatase, Total and Isoenzymes, Serum
Method Description
Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference
Total Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):
In the presence of magnesium and zinc ions, p-nitrophenyl phosphate is cleaved by phosphatases into phosphate and p-nitrophenol. The p-nitrophenol released is directly proportional to the catalytic alkaline phosphatase ALP activity. It is determined by measuring the increase in absorbance. (Package insert: Roche Alkaline Phosphatase reagent
package insert;, Indianapolis, IN, March February 19992012)
ALP Isoenzymes:
Serum samples are electrophoresed through alkaline buffered (pH 9.1) agarose gels. Almost all ALP isoenzymes can be separated by electrophoresis according to their charge difference. However, because the electrophoretic mobilities of the liver and bone isoenzymes are quite similar, a modification is required for separation. The Sebia system utilizes differences between liver and bone isoenzyme sialation in order to achieve separation. Each sample is applied to the agarose gel in duplicate. One sample is passed through wheat germ lectin (wheat germ agglutin:WGA) and is deposited anodally from the point of sample application. The bone isoenzyme, which is rich in sialic acids, reacts with WGA and precipitates adjacent to the lectin application point. The separated isoenzymes are visualized using a specific chromogenic substrate, 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate/nitro blue tetrazolium in aminomethyl propanol (AMP) buffer, pH 10.0. The dried gels are read on a densitometer for the quantification of tissue isoforms.(Package insert: Sebia Hydragel 7 and 15 ISO-PAL, Sebia, Norcross, GA)
Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed
Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.
Alkaline Phosphatase: Monday through Sunday; Continuously
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes: Monday through Friday


