Modification of porcine pancreatic lipase with Z-proline

Porcine pancreatic lipase was modified with Z-proline via the constitution of amide bonds between the free amino groups of lipase and the carboxyl groups of Z-proline, which were activated by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide (EDC). Different amounts of Z-proline were bound to lipase. Modification degree was determined by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS), by means of the decrease in free amino groups on lipase. The reason for choosing Z-proline was its unique structural characteristics, protected amino groups, and its effect on protein conformation by reducing the flexibility of the lipase molecule, thus achieving stabilization against changes in pH and temperature. After the modification, porcine pancreatic lipase was found to have new physicochemical characteristics, such as optimum alkaline pH stability and thermal stability at elevated temperatures.