Beta-galactosidases are widespread in microorganisms, animals and plants. That from the Escherichia coli strain K12 has been particularly studied at Anfinsen's laboratory in connection with genetic experiments on gene regulation of protein synthesis.
Beta-galactosidase is tetrameric, being composed of four identical subunits of 135kD, each with an active site which may be independently active (Melcher and Messe 1973). The enzyme is readily fragmented into small peptides (Marinkovic et al. 1975). The amino acid analysis indicates approximately 1170 residues per subunit (Fowler and Zabin 1970). See also Langley et al. (1975) and Naider et al. (1972). Kaneshiro et al. (1975) report on an active dimer.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Immunofluorescence, FLISA and Western Blot. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
FLISA: >1:20,000
Immunofluorescence (IC): 1:500-1:2500
Western Blot: 1:10,000
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. FITC conjugates are sensitive to light.