Globin chain synthesis
Haematology Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
Globin chain synthesis (GCS) is used to measure the ratio of alpha, beta and in the case of a fetal sample, gamma globin chains. The relative levels of the globin chains is estimated by in vitro biosynthesis incorporating 3H-labelled leucine followed by separation of the globin chains by chromatography
Sample Requirements
Volume of blood anticoagulated with HEPARIN:
Adult (16 years and above) 10 mls
Children (2-15 years) 5 mls
Infants (0-2 years) 1 mls
Prenatal diagnosis 1 ml
EDTA anticoagulated blood (same volume as above) should be provided for phenotypic analysis and DNA analysis.
Globin chain synthesis can only be performed by prior arrangement with Professor Thein.
Storage and Transport
Please note that samples should be received within 1 hour of collection and must be sent urgently by courier at room temperature. A normal travel control should also be provided.
If possible, please complete the request form attached and send as a hard copy (do not send electronically) with the sample. This will ensure all relevant information is available and will aid us in processing your test.
PDF Request Form
Download Globin Chain Synthesis Request Form
Turnaround Time
7 working days
Time Limit for Extra Tests
24 hours
Factors affecting results or interpretation
Samples must be clearly labelled with the patients first name, surname, D.O.B, hospital number and the date the sample was taken.
The details on the sample must correspond to the request form. Unlabelled samples will not be accepted.
Contacts
Professor Thein
T: 020 3299 1682
Chris Lambert
T: 020 3299 4337
Laboratory
T: 020 3299 9000 ext 2265
Dr Lysandros Varnavides
T: 020 3299 9000 ext 2265
