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Molar absorbance of tRNA
Analytical Biochemistry
|December 1, 1978
Summary
The concentration of transfer RNAs (tRNAs) can be determined using a standard extinction coefficient. This method provides a reliable way to quantify tRNA levels in magnesium buffer.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nucleic Acid Chemistry
Background:
- Accurate quantification of nucleic acids is crucial for molecular biology applications.
- Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) play a vital role in protein synthesis.
- Existing methods for tRNA quantification may vary in accuracy and applicability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a reliable and standardized method for evaluating tRNA concentration.
- To validate the use of a specific extinction coefficient for tRNA quantification.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of published spectrophotometric data for tRNAs.
- Calculation of extinction coefficients at 260 nm.
- Evaluation of tRNA concentration in magnesium buffer.
Main Results:
- A consistent extinction coefficient (epsilon 260) of 7200 per base was identified as suitable for most tRNAs.
- This value is applicable when tRNAs are in a magnesium-containing buffer.
Conclusions:
- The proposed extinction coefficient provides a straightforward and widely applicable method for tRNA quantification.
- Researchers can confidently use epsilon 260 = 7200/base for routine tRNA concentration measurements.