How does the protein fixation on SDS gel work? - (Feb/27/2009 )

Hi

I use 40% methanol, 10% acetic acid to fix proteins on the 2-D gels. Does anybody know what is the mechanism by which this fixation method work?

Thanks

Opal

the acetic acid fixes the protein similarly to the way tca does, except it is reversible. i can't give you the exact chemistry behind it, though. i may be able to find the answer from our resident organic chemist.

It is probably just simple denaturation/precipitation in the presence of acid/MeOH. There is no covalent reaction taking place.

Thanks,

This much of information is enough for me.

Opal