In the research fields of biochemistry and molecular biology, protein extraction is a vital technology. It is not only the basis for revealing the mysteries of life and understanding biological processes, but also a core link in many fields such as drug development and biotechnology applications. . As the direct executor of life activities, protein extraction efficiency and purity directly affect subsequent experimental results and scientific discoveries.

1. Methods of protein extraction 1. Principle of chemical extraction method: Use the solubility and chemical reactivity of chemical reagents (such as lysis solution) to release proteins from cells or tissues. Applicable experiments: Large-volume protein extraction: Chemical extraction is an effective choice when proteins need to be extracted quickly and in large quantities. It works on a variety of cell and tissue types, efficiently disrupting cell structures and releasing proteins. Proteomics research: In proteomics research, a large number of proteins need to be extracted and identified, and chemical extraction methods can meet this need. 2. Physical extraction methods include ultrasonic extraction, high-pressure crushing, grinding and crushing methods and other principles: based on the action of physical force, the cell structure is destroyed and the protein is released. Applicable experiments: Protein activity needs to be maintained: Physical extraction methods usually have less impact on protein activity, so they are suitable for experiments that need to maintain protein activity, such as enzyme activity determination, protein function research, etc. Samples with tougher cell walls: For samples with tougher cell walls (such as plant cells, fungal cells, etc.), physical extraction methods can more effectively destroy the cell structure and release proteins. 3. Principle of biological extraction method: Utilize the specific degradation effect of biological enzymes (such as lysozyme) to destroy cell walls or cell membranes, thereby releasing proteins. Applicable experiments: Mild extraction conditions: When experiments require mild extraction conditions to maintain protein integrity and activity, biological extraction methods are an ideal choice. It is suitable for experiments requiring mild cell disruption and maintaining protein integrity. Specific cell types: For some specific cell types (such as bacteria, yeast, etc.), biological extraction methods may have higher extraction efficiency and purity. 4. Principle of electrophoresis: Use the difference in mobility of proteins in an electric field to separate. Applicable experiments: Protein separation and identification: Electrophoresis is often used for protein separation, identification and purity testing. Through electrophoresis, proteins of different molecular weights, charges, and shapes can be separated for subsequent analysis and research. Protein interaction research: In protein interaction research, electrophoresis can be used to detect the interaction and binding between proteins.

2. Principle of protein extraction 1. Cell disruption Cell walls and cell membranes are barriers that protect cells and need to be disrupted to release proteins. This can be achieved by mechanical methods (such as ultrasonic crushing, high-pressure crushing, grinding and crushing, etc.) or chemical methods (such as the use of lysis solutions and biological enzymes). 2. The separated and broken cell mixture contains a variety of cell components, such as nucleic acids, lipids, polysaccharides, and proteins. Proteins need to be separated from other components through methods such as centrifugation, column chromatography, and electrophoresis. 3. The purified and separated protein may still contain other impurities or different types of proteins. The target protein needs to be further purified through affinity chromatography, gel filtration, dialysis and other methods.

After an in-depth understanding of the various methods and principles of protein extraction, we can clearly understand that each method has its unique advantages and scope of application, as well as certain limitations. Therefore, when selecting a protein extraction method, multiple factors such as the purpose of the experiment, sample characteristics, purity and activity requirements of the required protein, and experimental conditions must be comprehensively considered.

Related reading

Sequence preparation Fully automated library preparation of microbial and human DNA templates

Why automated nucleic acid preparation is needed

Fully automatic pipetting workstation instruction manual

Plasmid extraction principles and steps

Structure of the pipetting robot arm

Orbital Oscillator