Radiochemical neutron activation analysis of stable isotopes in relation to human mineral nutrition

Due to limitations associated with the use of radiotracers in human subjects in relation to the studies of human mineral nutrition and metabolism, methods based on stable isotopes potentially provide suitable alternatives. And, since highly enriched stable isotopes are now available, this has become an active area of research. Neutron activation analysis can measure a wide range of stable isotopes with the necessary degree of precision and accuracy in the relevant biological materials. We have developed radiochemical neutron activation procedures specifically for accurate measurement of stable isotopes 54Fe, 58Fe, 64Zn, 68Zn, 70Zn, 74Se, 76Se and 80Se, in human feces, urine, plasma, and red cells. (author)