A diagnostic test kit for detecting the presence or absence of a protease
(e.g., aminopeptidase) within a test sample is provided. The test kit
comprises a substrate that is capable of being cleaved in the presence of
the protease to release a compound. The kit also comprises a lateral flow
device that comprises a chromatographic medium. The chromatographic
medium defines a detection zone within which is contained a first reagent
(e.g., diazonium ion) that is capable of reacting with the compound to
form a second reagent (e.g., aromatic azo compound). The second reagent
exhibits a color that is different than the color of the first reagent.
The lateral flow device also includes an absorbent material located
adjacent to the chromatographic medium, the absorbent material receiving
the test sample after flowing through the chromatographic medium.