Merck, MAK119-1KT, Acetylcholinesterase Activity Assay Kit

General description
Acetylcholinesterases (AChEs) are enzymes that hydrolyze the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) to acetate and choline. AChE is located at the synaptic cleft and functions to terminate synaptic transmission by catalyzing the breakdown of ACh allowing cholinergic neurons to return to a resting state after activation. It is also found in membranes of red blood cells, motor and sensory fibers, muscles, nerves and central and peripheral tissues. Changes in AChE activity may result from exposure to certain insecticides, which act as cholinesterase inhibitors. Inhibitors of AChE are also used to treat certain conditions such as dementia.
Application
Acetylcholinesterase activity assay kit has been used to determine the activity of acetylcholinesterase in a rat organophosphate model and in brain tissue homogenates.
Suitable for the detection of acetylcholinesterase activity in biological samples such as blood, serum, and plasma.
Biochem/physiol Actions
This assay is an optimized version of the Ellman method in which thiocholine, produced by AChE, reacts with 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) to form an colorimetric (412 nm) product, proportional to the AChE activity present. One unit of AChE is the amount of enzyme that catalyzes the production of 1.0 μmole of thiocholine per minute at room temperature at pH 7.5. This kit has a linear range of 10-600 units/L of AChE activity.
Features and Benefits
Compatible with high-throughput handling systems. Can be adapted for use with cuvettes.