An enzymatic method for detecting MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors in plasma and its application in studies with reversible MAO-A selective inhibitors.

Abstract

A general method was developed for the simultaneous enzymatic assay of MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors in plasma of pretreated animals. After extraction of the inhibitor from plasma into an appropriate volatile organic solvent, dried aliquots of the organic layer are incubated with a buffered rat brain MAO preparation and substrates, [3H]serotonin and [14C]phenethylamine. Under conditions employed, the presence in plasma of MAO-A and/or B inhibitors can be detected.