Protein Estimation Using BCA Protein Assay Kit

September 22, 2026

BlueskyReddit
Stanford University
Biochemistry
Senior Research Scientist

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Company:

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Product Name:

Pierce™ BCA Protein Assay Kit

Catalog Number:

23225

The WNT signaling pathway is essential for embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation drives cancers of the stomach, intestine, and breast, among others. My research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of oncogenic WNT signal transduction, with the goal of identifying therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer. In my lab, I use the Pierce BCA Protein Assay Kit to measure protein concentrations in whole-cell extracts and, occasionally, purified proteins.

Experimental Design and Results Summary

Application

Protein Biochemistry

Starting Material

Whole cell lysates or purified proteins

Tips

None

Results Summary

I routinely use the Pierce BCA Protein Assay Kit to measure protein concentrations in whole-cell extracts from RKO, 293T, and HAP1 cells before western blotting or immunoprecipitation. I also use it for purified protein preparations. The assay gives consistent, reproducible standard curves and reliable estimates across a wide concentration range. Because it tolerates ionic and non-ionic detergents such as SDS, sodium deoxycholate, and Triton X-100 much better than Bradford assays do, I can measure RIPA lysates directly without diluting them heavily or exchanging the buffer.

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Summary

The Good

Compatible with the detergents in RIPA buffer (SDS, sodium deoxycholate, Triton X-100)

The Bad

None

The Bottom Line

The Pierce BCA Protein Assay Kit is a reliable, easy-to-use choice for measuring protein concentrations, especially in detergent-containing lysates like RIPA extracts. It's a staple in my lab, and I would recommend it to anyone who routinely measures protein in whole-cell extracts or purified samples.

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