| Field | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mfr No | |
| Detection Method | |
| Product Type | |
| Sample Type(s) | Biological samples |
| Shipping | |
| Species | |
| Storage |
Overview
For quantitative determination of α-amylase activity in biological samples. Safe. Non-radioactive assay. Sensitive and accurate. Linear detection range of 0.2 - 100 U/L α-amylase in a 96-well plate assay. Convenient and high-throughput. The assay uses OD405nm for signal readout. Compatible sample input includes Biological samples. Typical stated assay timing is 20 min.
Key elements and design rationale
- Readout format: OD405nm supports plate-based signal acquisition and consistent comparison across matched samples.
- Sample compatibility: The stated sample scope includes Biological samples, which is useful when aligning matrix type with calibration and control design.
- Analytical range context: The supplied specifications include a stated detection limit of 0.2 U/L for interpreting low-signal samples.
- Feature emphasis: Safe. Non-radioactive assay.
Additional feature notes highlight Sensitive and accurate. Linear detection range of 0.2 – 100 U/L α-amylase in a 96-well plate assay; Convenient and high-throughput. Homogeneous “mix-incubate-measure” type assay. Can be readily automated to assay thousands of samples per day. Available format information for this listing includes 100 Tests in 96-well plate.
Biological background
This product is centered on measurement of α-amylase within the matrices described for the assay. In practice, datasets from this type of format are typically interpreted by comparing relative signal, activity, or abundance across matched control and experimental groups rather than relying on a single value in isolation. Careful alignment of sample matrix, incubation window, and calibration strategy is important when comparing results across plates, operators, or study days.
More details
α-AMYLASE(EC 3.2.1.1) belongs to the family of glycoside hydrolase enzymes that break down starch into glucose molecules by acting on α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. The α-amylases cleave at random locations on the starch chain, ultimately yielding maltotriose and maltose, as well as glucose and “limit dextrin” from amylose and amylopectin. In mammals, α-amylase is a major digestive enzyme. Increased α-amylase levels in humans are associated with salivary trauma, mumps due to inflammation of the salivary glands, pancreatitis and renal failure. Simple, direct and automation-ready procedures for measuring amylase activity are very desirable. BioAssay Systems’ QuantiChrom™ α-Amylase Assay Kit provides a convenient colorimetric method to measure α-amylase activity in biological samples. In this assay, α-amylase hydrolyzes a synthetic substrate to release 2-chloro-4-nitrophenol. The rate of formation of the 2-chloro-4-nitrophenol, measured at 405 nm, is directly proportional to the enzyme activity.
Detection method
Colorimetric (OD 405 nm).
Detection limit and analytical sensitivity
Reported detection limit: 0.2 U/L.
Procedures and timing
Stated procedure or timing information: 20 min.
Research relevance and current trends
- Plate-based quantification and side-by-side group comparison remain central use cases for this assay format.
- The product notes emphasize multi-sample throughput, making it relevant for screening-oriented and larger batch comparison studies.
- Short assay timing and plate compatibility support time-course or repeated-measure collection plans when handling is kept consistent.
Common research applications
- Quantify α-amylase in biological samples by OD405 nm readout.
- Compare treatment or phenotype groups using matched biological samples handling.
- Monitor time-course or pre/post changes in biological samples across study conditions.
Interpretation is usually strongest when signal changes are assessed alongside matrix-matched controls, replicate agreement, and the assay's stated analytical window.
Notes for experimental interpretation
- Matrix composition, background signal, and sample handling can influence apparent response; compare like-with-like whenever possible.
- Use appropriate blanks, controls, and replicate wells to distinguish biological differences from plate, reagent, or handling variability.
Does this kit come with α-amylase?
This kit does not come with α-amylase. Instead, the customer will need to purchase their own enzyme if desired. The following protocol is optimized for porcine α-amylase from Calzyme (Cat #146A0100).
How is the standard curve used to quantify α-amylase in the sample?
The mechanism of this kit is based on the reaction of α-amylase with a synthetic substrate to yield a 2-chloro-4-nitrophenol product that is measurable at OD405nm. The nitrophenol standard is measured similarly to the product of the reaction and is therefore proportional to the concentration of product released.
I know that α-amylase and α-glucosidase are both necessary to digest starch and other carbohydrates into glucose. Does this kit require the use of α-glucosidase when reacting with the synthetic substrate?
The synthetic substrate is specific to α-amylase and should not require the use of α-glucosidase nor see interference from it.
For laboratories requiring additional technical capacity, we provide scientific support services including assay execution, method guidance, product sourcing, and customization to align the assay with specific experimental objectives. If you need assistance selecting the appropriate kit configuration, adapting the workflow to your application, or identifying related research services, please click Talk to a Scientist, email support@biohippo.com, or review our Research Services; a member of our scientific team will follow up with recommendations tailored to your study.
