Protein quantification in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) and dextran using the Bradford method

Anal Biochem. 2009 Dec 1;395(1):108-10. doi: 10.1016/j.ab.2009.07.045. Epub 2009 Aug 3.

Abstract

Some experimental methodologies require the quantification of protein in the presence of polymers like poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and dextran (DEX). In the aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) extraction of biomolecules, the interference of these phase-forming polymers on the Bradford quantification assay is commonly recognized. However, how these polymers interfere has not been reported hitherto. In this study we show that while dextran concentrations of 20% (w/w) can be used without error, loss of accuracy occurs for solutions with PEG concentrations >10% (w/w). Above this value a substantial decrease on the assay sensitivity is observed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Calibration
  • Colorimetry / methods*
  • Dextrans*
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Polyethylene Glycols*
  • Proteins / analysis*
  • Rosaniline Dyes
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Solvents

Substances

  • Dextrans
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Proteins
  • Rosaniline Dyes
  • Solvents
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • coomassie Brilliant Blue