The IDK® Biotin ELISA is intended to quantitatively determine biotin (Vitamin H) in serum, plasma, urine, and milk.

Biotin (vitamin H) is present in bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. The major part of biotin in food covalently binds to protein, leaving only a minor fraction freely available. During digestion, biocytin (biotinyl-lysine) releases from the proteins and can be resorbed as easily as biotin from the intestinal tract. Afterward, biotin releases from biocytin by the enzyme biocytinase in erythrocytes and plasma. It is then available as a prosthetic group for a series of biotin-dependent enzymes.

It is difficult to estimate the daily requirements of biotin because a healthy intestinal flora supplies a major part of biotin by endogenous synthesis. The generally recommended daily dose for adults is 100–200 µg. Chronic hemodialysis patients, however, show clear improvements in neuropathological status and glucose metabolism when supplementing biotin in a milligram range.

Biotin deficiency can be caused by the destruction of the intestinal flora or extreme diets (e.g. frequent consumption of raw eggs). It can lead to dermatitis, hair loss, anorexia, muscular hypotonia, depression, and reproduction problems.

The IDK® Biotin ELISA is Health Canada Licensed. Developed by Immundiagnostik AG.

We also offer the ID-Vit® Biotin Direct MTP Assay.