For researchers engaged in biochemical and enzymological studies, understanding the properties and applications of specific substrates is fundamental. 4-Nitrophenyl O-4,6-O-ethylidene-alpha-D-maltoheptaoside (EPS), CAS 96597-16-9, stands out as a valuable tool, particularly in the study of alpha-amylase activity. This article aims to elucidate the scientific principles behind EPS, its mechanism of action, and its diverse applications in research settings, offering guidance on how researchers can procure this essential compound.

EPS: A Tailored Substrate for Alpha-Amylase

EPS is a complex oligosaccharide that has been meticulously designed to serve as a substrate for alpha-amylase, an enzyme critical in the breakdown of starch and glycogen. The structure of EPS incorporates a maltoheptaoside backbone linked to a 4-nitrophenyl group via an ethylidene bridge. This specific structural arrangement makes it highly susceptible to enzymatic hydrolysis by alpha-amylase. When alpha-amylase cleaves the glycosidic bond of EPS, it liberates 4-nitrophenol. The release of 4-nitrophenol is significant because this compound is a chromophore, absorbing light strongly in the visible spectrum (typically around 400-410 nm), thus producing a yellow coloration. This colorimetric change allows for the quantitative monitoring of enzyme activity.

Researchers often seek out EPS by its CAS number or synonyms like 'Ethylidene-4-nitrophenyl-a-D-Maltoheptaoside' when investigating enzyme kinetics, developing new assay methodologies, or studying enzyme mechanisms. Keywords such as 'buy EPS CAS 96597-16-9', 'alpha-amylase substrate research', or 'enzyme kinetics reagent price' are common queries.

Mechanisms and Applications in Research

The primary application of EPS in research is as a tool to measure alpha-amylase activity. This includes:

  • Enzyme Kinetics Studies: EPS allows researchers to determine key kinetic parameters of alpha-amylase, such as Vmax (maximum velocity) and Km (Michaelis constant), by varying substrate concentrations and measuring reaction rates.
  • Enzyme Inhibition Studies: It can be used to screen for potential inhibitors of alpha-amylase, which could have therapeutic implications (e.g., in diabetes management or starch digestion control).
  • Biochemical Pathway Analysis: Researchers utilize EPS to investigate metabolic pathways involving amylase or similar glycosidases.
  • Quality Control for Biological Samples: In certain research contexts, EPS can be used to quantify the presence or activity of alpha-amylase in complex biological matrices.

The ability to easily monitor the reaction through the release of 4-nitrophenol makes EPS a convenient and sensitive substrate for a wide range of enzymatic studies.

Procuring EPS for Research Purposes

For academic and industrial researchers, sourcing high-quality EPS is crucial for the validity of their experimental results. When looking to purchase EPS, consider:

  • Purity Standards: Ensure the supplier provides material with high purity, typically 98% or greater, to avoid interference from impurities.
  • Supplier Reliability: Partner with chemical suppliers known for their quality and customer service. Checking for product reviews or citations in scientific literature can be helpful.
  • Availability and Packaging: Suppliers should offer research-appropriate quantities, from milligram to gram scales, with clear storage instructions.
  • Competitive Pricing: While specialized reagents can be costly, comparing prices from different manufacturers or distributors can help secure the best value for your research budget.

Understanding the scientific basis of EPS and its role in enzyme assays empowers researchers to select the right tools for their investigations. By partnering with reliable suppliers, scientists can ensure the integrity and reproducibility of their biochemical studies.

If you are a researcher seeking high-quality EPS (CAS 96597-16-9) for your laboratory, we offer competitive pricing and reliable supply to support your scientific endeavors.