A Deep Dive into 13C-Breath Tests

13C-breath tests involve analyzing the isotopic carbon dioxide exhaled after the ingestion of 13C-labeled substrates. In the realm of modern diagnostics, 13C-breath tests have emerged as a pivotal tool for non-invasive assessment of various metabolic functions. These tests facilLiver functionitate the diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders, liver function, and much more, establishing themselves as integral to both research and clinical practices. This article explores the 13C-breath tests, their principles, types, applications and substrates.

Principle of 13C-Breath Tests

At the heart of 13C-breath tests is the stable isotope carbon-13 (13C), a naturally occurring, non-radioactive form of carbon. When a 13C-labeled substrate is ingested, it is metabolized by specific enzymes within the body. If the metabolic pathway is functional, carbon-13 is converted into 13C-labeled carbon dioxide, which is then exhaled through the breath. The rate and quantity of 13C-carbon dioxide measured in the patient's breath reflect the efficiency of the metabolic process in question. For example, a deficiency in enzyme activity would result in lower levels of isotope-labeled carbon dioxide being exhaled, indicating potential disorders.

Types of 13C-Breath Tests and Their Applications

The versatility of 13C-breath tests is evident in their varied applications, encompassing multiple medical domains. Typical 13C-breath tests include:

• 13C-urea breath test detecting Helicobacter pylori infection: The 13C-urea breath test is a reliable method to identify H. pylori, a bacterium linked to peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis. This provides quick, non-invasive, and requiring minimal preparation, which is favored in clinical environments.
• 13C-breath tests assessing liver function: Tests using substrates like 13C-methacetin or 13C-aminopyrine gauge liver metabolic activity. These substrates, once metabolized by hepatic enzymes, help uncover conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
• 13C-breath test for the assessment of gastric emptying: The 13C-octanoic acid breath test measures gastric emptying rates, crucial for diagnosing delayed gastric emptying or gastroparesis, a condition often found in diabetes patients.
• 13C-breath tests exocrine pancreatic function: Specific substrates can help evaluate pancreatic enzyme activity, essential for diagnosing chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
• 13C-breath test for the Dietary Management: Beyond diagnostics, these tests aid in nutritional research and the formulation of personalized diet plans, by analyzing digestion and nutrient absorption efficiency.
• Others: Other 13C-breath tests include 13C-breath tests to determine the orocecal transit time, 13C-breath tests to determine small intestine bacterial overgrowth, 13C-breath test assessing carbohydrate malassimilation...

13C Substrates for 13C-Breath Tests

It can be seen that a variety of 13C-labeled substrates are utilized depending on the test's purpose. Here, the common substrates are summarized ^[1]. (as shown in table 1).

Table 1. 13C-labeled substrates for 13C-Breath Tests

Alfa Chemistry's Solutions

Alfa Chemistry is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of high-quality isotopically labeled substrates for research of 13C-breath tests. Our well-established manufacturing processes guarantee the highest purity and efficacy of our isotopic compounds, ensuring accuracy and reliability in metabolic assessments. Explore our offerings to find the perfect solution tailored to your requirements.

Reference

• Braden B. Methods and functions: Breath tests[J]. Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology, 2009, 23(3): 337-352.

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A Deep Dive into 13C-Breath Tests

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