Membrane Protein Extraction

Extraction of membrane proteins for detection, identification, or biochemical analyses is an experimental procedure that requires careful consideration due to the nature of these proteins. Playing important roles in cellular communication, transport, and activity, membrane proteins can be located integral or peripheral to the cell’s lipid bilayer. Thus effective separation and solubilization of the desired protein call for more specialized purification methods and compounds, such as detergents and surfactants. Commercial membrane protein extraction kits and reagents are available from various sources, containing optimized and ready-to-use solutions for the effective purification of membrane-associated or hydrophobic proteins.