John W. Pelley

A simple rapid biuret method for the estimation of protein in samples containing thiols

Abstract Interference in the Lowry protein determination by thiol compounds is now well known (1–3). We have found that the estimation of protein by the biuret reaction is also subject to interference when the protein sample contains various thiols. We wish to report that this interference can be prevented in most cases by using a biuret reagent which is chelated with ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA). In samples containing dithiothreitol (DTT) it is also necessary to add iodoacetamide prior to the addition of the biuret reagent. The use of iodoacetate to eliminate thiol interference in the Lowry procedure has been reported previously (3). This report details the extent of interference of dithiothreitol, β-mercaptoethanol, β-mercaptoethylamine, and glutathione, and illustrates the extent of neutralization which is attained in each case. We have also introduced modifications which permit the development of a stable color in only 5 min.

Serum cholinesterase inhibition by boronic acid

Horse serum cholinesterase (acylcholine acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.8) was reversibly inhibited by a variety of alkyl- and areneboronic acids with Ki values ranging from 6.2 mM (methaneboronic acid) to 3.1 microM (diphenylboric acid). Binding to the enzyme was apparently at the active center, because inhibition obeyed competitive kinetics and because boronic acids protected the enzyme from inactivation by phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride. Boronic acids should prove useful in probing the active center of serum cholinesterase.

Alanine aminopeptidase activity and autolysis in the tails of Rana catesbeiana larvae during metamorphosis

1. Alanine aminopeptidase activity and autolysis increase concomitantly in tail tissue of Rana catesbeiana tadpoles during metamorphosis. 2. significant increases first appear at Taylor and Kollros state XX and coincide with the beginning of tail regression as determined by the tail wt body wt ration. 3. The results suggest a role of alanine aminopeptidase in the mechanism of tail resorption.

3 – Protein Structure and Function

2017 is the 60 anniversary of the signing of the Australia Japan Commerce Treaty – enabling the start of Japan’s investment into the sectors which have underpinned Australia’s exports to Japan primarily in the resources and energy sectors. However, the nature of Australia’s trade with Japan is now surprisingly sophisticated and last year Japan surpassed the UK to become the 2 largest source of FDI in Australia. But what is happening in the sphere of science and technology and how are Japanese and Australians working together to enhance innovation and build the next generation of industries? Consul-General Lawson will talk about some of the trends in crossborder innovation paths between Australia and Japan. He is a graduate of the ANU and also has a Masters degree in Commercialisation of Science & Technology. Web: https://www.austrade.gov.au/Local-Sites/Japan https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlawson1 http://japan.embassy.gov.au/ SUNDAY 10:30 am11:00am