How would one determine the ‘specific activity’ of a particular protein? Would you measure this the same way for all proteins? Why or why not? How would one determine the amount of that same protein in a sample of animal tissue? What tells you more about the contribution of a protein to a metabolic process – the amount or specific activity of that protein? Why?
The specific activity of a particular protein can be determined by enzyme assays. Specific activity is directly proportional to the purity. Specific activity can also be determined by calorimetry and spectrophotometry. The choice of the procedure depends upon the purity and presence of other substances.
The amount of specific protein in a particular cell is determined by Western blot or immunoblot techniques. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay can also be used.
The specific activity of the protein determines the contribution of protein to your metabolic process. This is because specific activity represents the purity of the protein and its biological functionality.
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