Extraction and studies of diastase-like enzyme from piper betel.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Extraction and physico-Chemical studies of Diastase-Like Enzyme from piper betel petioles: Part II
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
G. V. S. Rama Sarma, Sadhan Kumar Dutta
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Extraction and physico-Chemical studies of Diastase-Like Enzyme from piper betel petioles: Part II
Year: 1998
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the extraction and physico-chemical properties of a diastase-like enzyme derived from the petioles of the Bengal variety of Piper betel. Recognizing the biological and pharmacological significance of this plant, the authors aim to evaluate the enzyme's potential through a series of physico-chemical studies, which include protein estimation, thin layer chromatography, optical activity measurements, and testing for specific chemical linkages. The research builds upon previous findings and seeks to advance knowledge regarding the enzyme's functional properties and potential applications.
Enzyme Characterization Through Protein Content Estimation
One of the key findings of the study is the estimation of protein content in the crude enzyme extract, which was quantified to be 31.3% (w/w). This value, determined using the Folin-Lowry method in comparison to a bovine serum albumin standard, asserts the presence of proteinaceous components indicative of enzymatic activity. Additionally, thin layer chromatography was utilized to analyze the products formed when the crude extract reacted with a starch substrate, revealing a maltose-like product consistent with the enzyme’s starch-splitting nature. The specific optical activity measured at 60° confirmed the dextrorotatory nature of the extract, providing further evidence of its enzymatic composition.
Conclusion
The preliminary findings suggest that the crude extract from Piper betel exhibits significant enzymatic properties, including hydrolytic activity towards starch and the presence of peptide linkages. While the study highlights these promising attributes, further investigations into the purification of the enzyme and its antimicrobial properties are currently underway. The authors express gratitude for the support received from academic institutions and funding bodies, indicating the collaborative effort behind advancing research on this traditional plant's biochemical potential.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the focus of the study on piper betel extract?
The study focused on extracting a diastase-like enzyme from piper betel petioles and evaluating its physico-chemical properties, including protein content, chromatography results, optical activity, and presence of specific linkages.
How was the protein content of the extract measured?
The protein content was determined using the Folin-Lowry method, comparing optical density against a bovine serum albumin standard to prepare a standard curve for calculating protein concentration.
What were the findings from the thin layer chromatography?
Thin layer chromatography revealed that the reaction product was maltose-like, confirmed by the equivalent Rf value to maltose standard, indicating the enzyme's starch-splitting activity.
What conclusions can be drawn about the enzyme extract?
The extract demonstrated carbohydrolytic activity, dextrorotation, protein presence with peptide linkages, and absence of thiol and disulfide linkages, suggesting its enzymatic nature and potential biological significance.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Extraction and studies of diastase-like enzyme from piper betel.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological or enzymatic actions exhibited by substances, such as the crude enzyme extract from piper betel. The investigation into the activity of the enzyme is crucial for understanding its potential applications in microbiology and pharmacology, reflecting its ability to catalyze reactions and influence biological processes.
2) Water:
Water plays a vital role in biochemical reactions, serving as a solvent for the enzyme extraction process from piper betel. It facilitates the chemical interactions between the enzyme and substrates, maintaining optimal conditions for enzymatic activity, and is also critical in maintaining hydration and presenting substrates during assays.
3) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drug action and the properties of medicinal substances. The exploration of the pharmacological implications of piper betel's diastase-like enzyme showcases its potential therapeutic benefits, positioning it as a candidate for future medicinal applications due to its bioactive compounds.
4) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sarma refers to G.V.S. Rama Sarma, one of the authors who conducted this study on piper betel. His contributions, as indicated in the paper, reflect a commitment to exploring the enzymatic properties of natural substances, corroborating the importance of academic research in understanding medicinal plants.
5) Rama (Ramā, Rāmā, Rāma):
Rama, implicitly referring to G.V.S. Rama Sarma, is crucial in framing the study's credibility. His expertise, recognized through numerous publications, establishes a foundation for this research, highlighting the importance of authors in the advancement of knowledge related to phytochemical and enzymatic properties of plants.
6) Purification:
Purification refers to the process of isolating the active enzyme from piper betel to enhance its properties for study. This step is essential to ensure that the subsequent analyses yield accurate results about the enzymatic characteristics and potential applications in therapeutic contexts.
7) Discussion:
Discussion embodies the section where researchers interpret their findings, contextualizing them within existing literature. In the context of this study, it allows for a critical examination of the diastase-like enzyme characteristics, encouraging debate and future research directions based on the preliminary data gathered.
8) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses the systematic study of the natural world, including the investigation into the enzymatic properties of piper betel. It highlights the methodologies employed in biological research, enhancing understanding of plant biochemistry and the potential pharmacological significance of its extracts.