The Vital Role of Horseradish Peroxidase in Modern Biochemical Research and Clinical Diagnostic Assays Used for Precise
Horseradish Peroxidase is a versatile enzyme widely utilized in molecular biology for its ability to amplify signals in various diagnostic tests.
In the world of biochemistry, Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP) is prized for its stability and high turnover rate. It catalyzes the oxidation of substrates using hydrogen peroxide, producing a visible color change or light emission. This reaction is fundamental in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry, allowing scientists to detect specific proteins or antibodies.
During group discussions, the focus often lies on the enzyme's conjugation capabilities. Because HRP is relatively small, it can be easily linked to antibodies without interfering with their binding affinity. This makes it an essential tool for "labeling" molecules. Researchers often compare HRP with other enzymes like Alkaline Phosphatase, noting that HRP is typically faster and more sensitive for Western blotting applications. However, its sensitivity to certain preservatives, like sodium azide, is a common troubleshooting topic…