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Determination of nitrate by conversion to nitrite using Paracoccus denitrificans
I Matchová1, I Cerná, I Kucera
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechoslovakia.
Folia Microbiologica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
A novel method determines nitrate levels using Paracoccus denitrificans enzyme activity. This approach blocks further reduction, allowing accurate colorimetric nitrite measurement for environmental and biological samples.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nitrate determination is crucial in environmental monitoring and biological studies.
- Existing methods for nitrate analysis can be complex or lack specificity.
- Enzyme-based assays offer potential for sensitive and selective nitrate detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a new, sensitive method for quantifying nitrate concentrations.
- To utilize the specific enzymatic activity of Paracoccus denitrificans for nitrate determination.
- To establish a colorimetric assay for the accurate measurement of nitrite, a product of nitrate reduction.
Main Methods:
- Employing Paracoccus denitrificans with blocked downstream reduction pathways (cytochrome c mutation or mucidin inhibition).
- Deproteinizing samples using zinc acetate to remove interfering substances.
- Measuring the produced nitrite via a colorimetric technique.
Main Results:
- Successfully established a method for nitrate determination based on nitrate reductase activity.
- The blocked reduction pathway ensures that all initial nitrate is converted to measurable nitrite.
- The colorimetric quantification of nitrite provides a reliable measure of the initial nitrate concentration.
Conclusions:
- The developed method offers a precise and efficient way to determine nitrate levels.
- This enzymatic approach provides a valuable tool for nitrate analysis in various sample types.
- The method's specificity and sensitivity make it suitable for diverse scientific applications.