TU M2-PK Enzyme Detection

• What is TU M2-PK:
  TU M2-PK is an isoform of the pyruvate kinase enzyme type M2, existing as a dimer released from tumor cells during their metabolism and proliferation. In normal cells, this enzyme predominantly exists as a tetramer, whereas in cancerous transformations, the M2 isoform in dimer form predominates.


• Analysis principle:
  TU M2-PK detection in stool is based on the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which uses specific monoclonal antibodies for quantitative measurement of the enzyme secreted by tumor cells in the intestine.


• Clinical significance:
  • Early detection of dysplastic and tumor changes in the colon and rectum, including colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps.
  • Assessment of tumor severity and progression.
  • Prediction of metastasis and disease recurrence risk.
  • Monitoring treatment effectiveness, including post-surgery.


• Method advantages:
  • High sensitivity (~92%) and specificity exceeding traditional methods such as occult blood stool test.
  • Results are not affected by patient diet, medication (e.g., vitamin C, NSAIDs), and other factors influencing other tests.
  • Ability to detect both bleeding and non-bleeding tumors.
  • Single stool sample collection is sufficient for accurate results, simplifying patient preparation and sample collection.


• Normal values:
  Normally, TU M2-PK levels in stool do not exceed approximately 4.0 U/mL. Elevated levels may indicate benign polyps, dysplastic changes, or malignant tumors of the intestine.


• Indications for the test:
  • Patients with symptoms of colorectal cancer or other intestinal diseases.
  • High-risk individuals: age over 50, obesity, smoking, family history of cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases (colitis, Crohn’s disease), polyps.
  • Screening and preventive examination for early tumor detection in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Post-treatment monitoring and recurrence surveillance.


• Preparation and test procedure:
  No special preparation or diet required. The patient collects a stool sample in a sterile container and delivers it to the laboratory.