Proteinase K

Manufactured by MOLEQULE-ON (New Zealand), this broad-spectrum serine protease is supplied as a lyophilized powder designed for general protein digestion in molecular biology workflows. The enzyme remains highly active and stable in the presence of SDS, EDTA, urea and at elevated temperatures.

Activity is greater than 30 units/mg at 37°C, with one unit defined as the amount of enzyme that liberates 1.0 μmol of tyrosine per minute at 37°C, pH 7.5. The lyophilized product is soluble in double-distilled water at a concentration of 1 mg/ml and should be stored in desiccated form at -20°C. Reconstitution is recommended just prior to use, and aliquoting is advised to avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles that can reduce enzyme stability.

Typical applications include the preparation of RNA and high-molecular-weight DNA, preparation of tissue sections for in situ hybridization, inactivation of nucleases during nucleic acid extraction, and lysis of cells to facilitate isolation of intact genomic DNA or RNA. The enzyme can cause irritation of the eyes, respiratory tract and skin, so appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn. For laboratory use only.