Pepsin Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Pepsin Extra Pure is a highly refined proteolytic enzyme derived from porcine gastric mucosa, widely recognized for its ability to break down proteins into peptides. Appearing as a white to off-white, amorphous powder, it retains strong enzymatic activity and is soluble in dilute acids, making it ideal for biological and analytical applications.
This Extra Pure grade is extensively used in biochemical research, pharmaceutical formulations, digestive studies, and food processing, particularly in the production of protein hydrolysates. It plays a crucial role in simulating gastric digestion in lab experiments and is also employed in diagnostic preparations and enzyme assays. Pepsin should be stored in a tightly sealed container under refrigerated conditions to maintain its activity, and care should be taken to avoid exposure to moisture and alkaline conditions, which can denature the enzyme.
USES
PRIMARY USES
- Used as a digestive enzyme in pharmaceutical preparations to aid protein digestion.
- Applied in clinical treatments for conditions like hypochlorhydria and achlorhydria.
- Essential in biochemical research for hydrolyzing proteins in enzyme activity studies.
- Used in laboratories for tissue dissociation in histology and cell isolation procedures.
- Employed in immunology and proteomics to prepare peptide fragments for analysis.
SECONDARY USES
- Utilized in the food industry for producing protein hydrolysates and flavor enhancers.
- Helps in the production of gelatin by breaking down collagen in animal tissues.
- Occasionally used in the clarification of broths and meat extracts.
- Included in cosmetic formulations as a mild enzymatic exfoliant.
- Applied in forensic science and pathology for tissue digestion protocols in specimen preparation.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Pepsin
- CAS Number: 9001-75-6
- HS Code: 3507.90.00
- Molecular Formula: C₁₂₂H₁₇₄N₃₂O₃₃ (approximate, varies slightly by source)
- Synonyms:
- Pepsin A
- Gastricsin
- Proteolytic enzyme
- EC 3.4.23.1 (Enzyme Commission number)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder or crystalline solid
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless or faint protein-like odor
- Boiling Point & Melting Point: Not applicable (denatures before boiling)
- Density: Not well defined; enzyme preparations are often light and fluffy
- Solubility:
- Soluble in water (forms active enzyme solution)
- Insoluble in organic solvents
- pH Level: Optimum enzymatic activity at pH 1.5 to 2.5
- Vapor Pressure & Volatility: Not volatile
- Flash Point: Not applicable (non-flammable)
- Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
- Viscosity: Not applicable in dry form
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS Classification):
- May cause allergic reactions via inhalation (Respiratory sensitizer – GHS H334)
- May cause skin and eye irritation
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits:
- No specific OSHA or ACGIH limits; minimize dust exposure
- Reactivity:
- Stable under recommended storage conditions
- Denatures in alkaline or very high-temperature environments
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in cool, dry conditions (2–8 °C recommended)
- Protect from moisture and heat
- Incompatible Materials:
- Strong acids or bases outside of pH activity range
- Oxidizing agents
- Container Type: Airtight plastic or glass containers
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date: Typically 2 years when stored properly
- Special Handling Requirements:
- Use gloves, dust mask, and goggles
- Avoid inhalation of powder
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- Listed in TSCA and approved under FDA for food and pharmaceutical use (specific grades)
- REACH registered
- Transportation Restrictions:
- Not regulated for transport
- Waste Disposal Method:
- Dispose of in accordance with local environmental regulations
- Non-hazardous waste unless contaminated
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
- Not expected to pose significant environmental risk
- Persistence in Environment:
- Biodegradable (protein-based)
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
- Biodegradability:
- Fully biodegradable under environmental conditions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and protective goggles.
- Use a dust mask or work in a fume hood to avoid inhalation of fine enzyme dust.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
- Prevent formation of dust; do not breathe dust.
- Avoid ingestion or prolonged exposure.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Keep the container tightly sealed.
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Store away from oxidizers and incompatible substances.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Remove the person to fresh air.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms like coughing or wheezing occur.
Skin Contact:
- Wash affected areas thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical advice if irritation or allergic reaction develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a medical professional.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not highly flammable but may burn if involved in a fire.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use water spray, dry chemical, CO₂, or foam.
- Avoid high-pressure water streams that may disperse dust.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides under fire conditions.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.