Protein sequencing by automated Edman degradation chemistry is a simple and robust solution for many laboratories. Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (SSI) now offers its automated PPSQ protein sequencer, an N-terminal protein sequencing solution, to U.S. researchers. First launched in Japan, the PPSQ series has been providing international life sciences researchers with enhanced methods for determining amino acid sequences for nearly 20 years.
“During the past few months, researchers have contacted Shimadzu to inquire about the availability of the PPSQ protein sequencers in North America,” said Kiyoshi Kawamoto, SSI’s vice president of marketing. “Shimadzu has been manufacturing the PPSQ line of Edman sequencers for years and, as part of life science expansion, will now offer this mature product to the U.S. market.”
PPSQ series protein sequencers achieve baseline stability and allow high-sensitivity analysis of PTH-amino acids by separating them isocratically. Isocratic sequence analysis provides more stable retention times. That means peaks detected in previous cycles can be cancelled using substation chromatogram processing, making it easier for users to identify sequences. Performing PTH-amino acid analysis in isocratic mode makes it possible for laboratories to reduce liquid waste and running costs.
The PPSQ series’ specialized software incorporates control functions for the reaction unit and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, enabling easier sequence analysis of proteins and peptides. The software simplifies the reprocessing of chromatograms, the overlay of multiple chromatograms and the automatic estimation of amino acid sequences, which are required for sequence analysis.