Hosted by the iMPROVINg team, the amino acid analysis core lab is under the responsibility of Nourredine Hafnoui. It offers the possibility to measure, in any biological sample, the content of amino acids, whether they are free or in constitutive proteins.
In addition to the device necessary for the hydrolysis of proteins (heating blocks, tubes with refrigerants, evaporator-concentrator suitable for acids), the core lab has 3 complementary equipments

 • Amino Acid Analyser : L-8900, Hitachi

Amino acid analysis is based on their separation by cation exchange chromatography followed by a post-column derivatization with ninhydrin. This technique is considered as the reference technique.
The L-8900 analyzer has excellent reproducibility and sensitivity.

• Elemental Analyzer (Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Sulphur) : Vario micro cube, Elementar

This analyzer simultaneously determines the C H N S elements in different solid and liquid matrices. Using the conversion factor of 6.25, it allows the quantification of proteins in foods and biological tissues.

• HPLC : Ultimate 3000, Dionex

This HPLC system is used for the rapid quantification of specific amino acids. Methods have been developed for the quantification of amino-thiols (cystein, glutathione, Cys-Gly,? -Glu-Cys, N-acetylcysteine ...)

and dipeptides containing histidine (carnosine, anserin ...) in physiological fluids.

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In addition, equipped with a diode array detector (DAD), this HPLC is useful for a first characterization of peptides derived from the digestion of proteins.

Although its activity mainly meets the needs of researchers in the unit, the core lab is open to external services or collaborations.

For a free quote contact us:

noureddine.hafnaoui@inra.fr

et  didier.remond@inra.fr