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[Heavy water (D2O) as a protective protein containing medium. Example: human cholinesterase]
1Biologisch-Chemische Abteilung, Freie Universität Berlin, Bundesrepublik Deutschland.
Zeitschrift Fur Naturforschung. C, Journal of Biosciences
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Heavy water (D2O) shows protective effects on proteins like cholinesterase and lactate dehydrogenase against heat denaturation. Its protective capacity is enhanced when combined with substances such as glycerine, NaCl, and albumin.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Protein chemistry
Context:
- Investigating the stabilizing properties of heavy water (deuterium oxide, D2O) on enzymes.
- Assessing the impact of varying temperatures and co-solutes on protein stability.
Purpose:
- To determine the protective effect of heavy water on cholinesterase and lactate dehydrogenase.
- To evaluate the combined protective effects of D2O with glycerine, NaCl, and albumin.
Summary:
- Proteins were exposed to heat (60°C for 10 min, 45°C for several days) with D2O and other protective agents.
- D2O demonstrated a protective effect, which was additive with glycerine and synergistic with NaCl and/or albumin.
- In cold conditions, D2O protected cholinesterase against acid denaturation; with heat, it also protected against basic denaturation.
Impact:
- Highlights the potential of D2O as a cryoprotectant and stabilizer for proteins.
- Provides insights into the mechanisms of protein stabilization by D2O and common additives.
- Suggests applications in preserving enzyme activity under various stress conditions.