A rapid radioactive method for determination of thiaminase activity and its use in the diagnosis of cerebrocortical necrosis in sheep and cattle

Methods available for the assay of thiaminase are discussed, and a new method based on the cleavage of [14C]thiazole-labelled thiamine is described. Due to the rapidity and simplicity of its operation, it is especially recommended when large numbers of assays need to be carried out. Its application in understanding the aetiology of cerebrocortical necrosis of cattle and sheep is reported.