Determination of size, molecular weight, and presence of subunits

The size or apparent molecular weight of a given protein may be the most cited distinguishing characteristic of the molecule. In addition to being the basis of many separation methods, the molecular weight, or simply molecular size, immediately provides the investigator with an idea of the complexity of the molecule, whether it is likely to be difficult to produce in quantity, and whether certain analytical methods are likely to be productive. Knowing whether the polypeptide of interest can self assemble or exists in a heterogeneous complex with other polypeptides may provide valuable information regarding biosynthesis or mechanism. This chapter outlines key methods used to determine the size of proteins, their molecular weight, and whether subunits are present, with a focus on the basis of the determinations, their strengths, and their limitations.