Although saliva was not a sample type tested during the development of this kit, there has been significant interest in testing for oxytocin in saliva. One publication (Holt-Lunstad J et al., 2008) described how the kit was used with saliva samples. Several other researchers have shared with us the protocol described below for using that matrix. Please note that this protocol may require further optimization specific for the type of sample you are testing.
1. Collect at least 1mL of saliva. Samples may be stored frozen at -20°C until ready to use.
2. Centrifuge to precipitate particulates and force mucus to the bottom of the tube.
2. Centrifuge to precipitate particulates and force mucus to the bottom of the tube.
3. Collect the supernatant, and divide into 1mL aliquots.
4. Evaporate 1mL to dryness in a centrifugal evaporator (SpeedVac or similar).
5. Reconstitute dried sample in 250µL of assay buffer.
4. Evaporate 1mL to dryness in a centrifugal evaporator (SpeedVac or similar).
5. Reconstitute dried sample in 250µL of assay buffer.
These samples are now four times more concentrated and should be free of interfering factors.