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A radiometric technique for measuring L-asparagine in picomole quantities
The Biochemical Journal
|October 1, 1972
Summary
This study introduces a new radiometric method to quantify l-asparagine in biological samples. The technique accurately measures low concentrations of l-asparagine, crucial for understanding its role in biological systems.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- L-asparagine is an important amino acid with diverse biological roles.
- Accurate quantification of l-asparagine in small biological samples is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a sensitive radiometric assay for measuring l-asparagine.
- To demonstrate the utility of the assay in biological contexts.
Main Methods:
- Enzymatic removal of interfering amino acids (l-glutamate, l-aspartate).
- Enzymatic hydrolysis of l-asparagine to l-aspartate using asparaginase.
- Enzymatic transamination of l-aspartate with radiolabeled 2-oxoglutarate.
- Quantification of radiolabeled glutamate via scintillation counting.
Main Results:
- The method accurately quantifies l-asparagine in small biological samples (approx. 1 µL).
- The assay can detect as little as 25 pmol of l-asparagine.
- Successfully applied to measure l-asparagine in mouse blood and hypophysis.
Conclusions:
- A sensitive and specific radiometric technique for l-asparagine measurement is established.
- This method provides a valuable tool for biochemical and physiological studies involving l-asparagine.
- The assay's sensitivity allows for analysis of limited biological specimens.