Improved lysozyme assay in biological fluids.

Abstract

We describe a simple, rapid, sensitive, and highly reproducible assay for lysozyme, with use of concentrated cell suspensions of Micrococcus lysodeikticus in Tris-buffered glycerol/water (40/60 by vol), pH 7.5. Stored at -20 degrees C, the cells' susceptibility to lysozyme remains unaltered over long periods. Almost identical concentration curves were obtained with different aliquots of the same preparation during eight months. Lysozyme activity was reflected in the decrease in absorbance of the reaction mixture after incubation for 15 min at 37 degrees C. Concentrations of egg-white lysozyme as low as 0.02 mg/L can be accurately assayed.