Nexera Amino Acid Analysis System

Amino acid analysis occupies an important role in diverse fields, such as food science and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The Nexera Amino Acid Analysis System uses detection by post-column fluorescence derivatization, with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA)/N-acetylcysteine as the reaction reagents, to selectively and sensitively quantitate the amino acids contained in samples have the complex matrix.

Amino acid analysis is applied to the elucidation of peptide and protein structure. As amino acids are essential nutrients that comprise the proteins in the human body, the amino acid analysisis particularly useful for detecting imbalances, deficiencies and metabolic conditions. Amino acid analysis is frequently utilized to identify conditions like aminoaciduria – an inborn error of amino acid metabolism – and urea cycle defects. Key to investigating several inherited metabolic diseases, particularly those involving unexplained seizures, amino acid tests of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood and/or urine are incredibly useful diagnostic tools. Further to this, the high sensitivity afforded by amino acid analysis makes it invaluable in the fields of food science and pharmaceuticals, where the capabilities are used to manage quality control in the production of food and drugs.

The process of amino acid analysis involves hydrolyzing the peptide bonds before the analysis. Shimadzu’s Nexera Amino Acid Analysis system is designed to deliver precise quantification of amino acids in complex samples and integrates high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and specialized consumables. The instruments selectively detect amino acids based on Shimadzu’s acclaimed post-column reaction technology and high-sensitivity fluorescence detectors. The instruments also boast superb injection precision over a wide range of volumes and a unique design that ensures reliable sample cooling.