Since its invention in 1976 by Marion M. Bradford, the Bradford protein assay (also known as the Coomassie protein assay) quickly became an indispensable method in the laboratory. Indispensable tools. This fast and accurate spectroscopic analysis technology can effectively measure the concentration of proteins in solution. For the scientific community, the secret to the success of the Bradford assay lies in its effectiveness and convenience.
The Bradford protein assay is based on the absorption transition of Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250 dye, which causes it to exhibit different morphologies and colors in different environments. For example, in an acidic environment, the dye becomes a blue form and binds to the protein, whereas in the absence of the protein, the solution remains brown.
This method of classification allows for precise measurements of protein capabilities. When the dye binds to the protein, it causes the absorbance of the sample to shift from 465 nm to 595 nm, and is read at this wavelength, indicating the concentration of protein in the sample.
The Bradford assay is more resistant to chemical interference than other protein assays, especially chemicals like sodium and potassium or carbohydrates like sucrose. In addition, the method is easy to operate and only takes approximately 30 minutes from preparation to completion, which makes it very popular for daily use in laboratories.
In environmental comparison, the Bradford protein assay compensates for some of the shortcomings of other techniques. For example, the BCA and Lowry methods may not work effectively in the presence of certain molecules, whereas the Bradford assay appears to be more compatible in this regard.
However, despite its significant advantages, the Bradford assay also presents some challenges. Its linear range is limited, which requires dilution when measuring higher particle samples, and certain substances (such as the detergent SDS) may also interfere with the results. These issues require careful consideration in operations to ensure data accuracy.
Interestingly, researchers are actively improving the Bradford assay to increase the accuracy of detecting specific proteins such as collagen. Recent research shows that appropriately adding a small amount of SDS can significantly improve the color absorption reaction when detecting collagen without affecting the absorption of other non-collagen proteins.
These new and improved Bradford assays not only improve the accuracy of collagen, but also greatly expand its application range in high-collagen samples, making the method more efficient and flexible. Incisively and vividly.
Looking to the future, can we imagine a more accurate and versatile protein assay, perhaps one that can provide fast experimental results with just a few easy steps? This will not only change our understanding of proteins, but also promote revolutionary progress in biotechnology.