Elastase, like trypsin and chymotrypsin, is a serine protease that also hydrolyses amides and esters. It is produced in the pancreas as an inactive zymogen, proelastase, and activated in the duodenum by trypsin. Elastase is distinctive in that it acts upon elastin. Because elastin in found in highest concentrations in the elastic fibers of connective tissues, elastase is frequently used to dissociate tissues which contain extensive intercellular fiber networks. For this purpose, it is usually used with other enzymes such as collagenase, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Elastase is the enzyme of choice for the isolation of Type II cells from the lung. Elastase is also found in blood components. The serum enzyme, identical with pancreatic elastase, differs from the elastase of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. It is indicated that the leukocyte enzyme, which is inhibited by alpha1-antitrypsin but not by pancreatic trypsin inhibitor, mediates pathological elastolysis during acute arteritis and pulmonary emphysema. Bieth et al. (1974) indicate elastase involvement in atherosclerosis and acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Specific Activity: 3 units/mg protein Protein: 95% Concentration: As Reported (prior to lyophilization) Quality Control: SDS-PAGE Optimum pH: 8.5 Extinction Coefficient: 22 Isoelectric Point: 8.5 Unit Definition: 1 unit cleaves 1umole N-succinyl-L-alanyl- L-alanyl-L-alanine-p-nitroanilide per minute at 25C, pH 8 . Composition: Single peptide chain of 240 residues and contains 4 disulfide bridges. Storage and Stability: Lyophilized powder stored at 4C is stable for 6-12 months after receipt. Exhibits poor solubility at neutral pH and at concentrations >0.25%. It is recommended that that primary solutions be made in KCl or alkaline buffers and diluted into the reaction mixtures or media, compensating for ionic strength or pH changes. Stable to pH 10.4. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
Molecular Weight:
25900
Purity:
95% Protein. 2X Crystallized. Suitable for the isolation of Type II lung cells.
Form:
Supplied as a dialyzed, lyophilized powder.
CAS Number:
[39445-21-1]
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