Aconitase is a critical enzyme in intermediary metabolism, catalyzing the reversible isomerization of citrate to isocitrate via cis-aconitate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. It plays a dual role in cellular function, acting as both a metabolic enzyme and a regulator of iron homeostasis. Aconitase assay kits provide researchers with precise methods to measure its activity, offering insights into metabolic processes and oxidative stress.
Applications of Aconitase Assay Kits
- Oxidative Stress Studies: Assessing aconitase activity as a biomarker for oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS).
- Iron Metabolism Research: Investigating the role of cytosolic aconitase in regulating iron bioavailability.
- Mitochondrial Function Analysis: Measuring mitochondrial aconitase activity to study TCA cycle efficiency and mitochondrial health.
- Disease Research: Exploring the impact of metabolic dysfunctions on conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
Key Features of Aconitase Assay Kits
- Sensitivity: Kits can detect low levels of aconitase activity in various sample types.
- Versatility: Suitable for tissue homogenates, cell lysates, and isolated mitochondria.
- Ease of Use: Simple protocols with rapid detection methods.
- High Throughput Capability: HTS-ready kits streamline large-scale studies.
Aconitase assay kits are indispensable tools for studying intermediary metabolism and cellular stress responses. By enabling precise measurement of mitochondrial and cytosolic aconitase activities, these kits support advancements in understanding oxidative damage, iron regulation, and metabolic health.