What analyte is detected using the Zimmerman reaction?

The Zimmerman reaction is a biochemical test used to detect 17-ketosteroids. This reaction involves the hydrolysis of steroids to produce keto groups that can then be measured. 17-ketosteroids are important metabolites in the human body, often involved in the metabolism of sex hormones, and their levels can be indicative of various conditions, including adrenal gland function and hormonal imbalances.

In the context of the other analytes listed, while they are significant in clinical chemistry, they are not associated with the Zimmerman reaction. Creatinine is commonly measured to assess kidney function but is typically detected using the Jaffe reaction. Gamma-glutamyl transferase is an enzyme measured to evaluate liver function and is not related to the Zimmerman approach. Urea nitrogen, often assessed to evaluate kidney function as well, is measured through other established methods like the urease reaction or colorimetric assays. The specificity of the Zimmerman reaction to 17-ketosteroids underscores its role in hormonal studies and physiological assessments.