MORL Screening Methodology

Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)

Plasma Sample

  • 1ml frozen EDTA plasma

Click here to print sample and shipping requirements.

  • EDTA plasma samples must be frozen to below -80°C immediately after separation from cells and shipped on dry ice. These samples remain viable for at least six months when stored at -80°C.

  • All EDTA plasma samples MUST be processed and frozen down to -80°C immediately after collection
  • Labeled with the sample type AND patient’s name, DOB, MRN and sex
  • Cryovials should be put in zip lock bags and completely covered in dry ice to keep the sample frozen until it arrives in the lab
  • Shipped overnight on at least 5 lbs of dry ice
  • Shipping and receiving dock closed on weekends and holidays 
    • Deliveries accepted Monday - Friday 

If samples arrive thawed they will be REJECTED.

Click here to print sample and shipping requirements.

Factor D (FD), also known as adipsin, is a 24 kDa serine protease predominantly produced by adipocytes. Its sole function is to cleave its natural substrate, C3b-bound factor B (FB), thereby generating C3bBb and activating the amplification loop of the alternative pathway (AP) of complement. Plasma FD levels in healthy individuals can vary but under normal conditions are within the range of 1–2 μg/mL. Due to its small size, FD is filtered through the glomerulus and then reabsorbed within the renal tubules. In patients with chronic kidney disease secondary to C3G and aHUS, factor D levels can be elevated up to 30-fold above normal. FD concentration can impact the activity of the AP and its elevation can serve as a secondary driver of complement dysregulation.

Information

Quick Facts

  • CPT code: 86160 
  • Test code: 01FDL
  • Turnaround time: 2 weeks
  • Cost: $330
Requisition Form

To order:

Use this requisition form to order this test.

Background Information

Complement factor D (FD), also referred to as adipsin, is a 24 kDa serine protease primarily synthesized by adipocytes. Its primary role is to cleave its natural substrate, factor B (FB) bound to C3b, thus generating C3bBb and initiating the amplification loop of the alternative pathway of complement. In healthy individuals, plasma FD levels typically range from 1–2 μg/mL.  Due to its small molecular size, FD is filtered through the glomerulus and subsequently reabsorbed within the renal tubules.  In patients with chronic kidney disease, levels of factor D can increase dramatically (up to 30-fold above normal). This elevation in FD concentration can significantly impact the activity of the alternative pathway, serving as a secondary driver of complement dysregulation in these conditions.  

The Clinical Diagnostics Service of the Molecular Otolaryngology & Renal Research Laboratories is a CLIA-approved, Joint Commission-accredited diagnostic laboratory.