A NOVEL METHOD FOR KERATIN DISSOLUTION AND TESTING.

Objective: To find a suitable method for dissolution of keratin and performing protein color reactions. Material and method: 1 gram Keratin powder obtained from animal horn was dissolved in 100 ml, 10% freshly made KOH. Heat was applied for 1-2 minutes to warm the solution. Solutions were then cooled and 10% Acetic acid was added in equal amount. Solution was gently mixed and homogenous solution was prepared. Qualitative protein color were performed. Tests were compared with previously described method of preparing Keratin solution in 40% KOH and heat. Solutions in 5%, 10%,15%,20% and 40% KOH alone and 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% Acetic acid were also tested. 5% and 20% Acetic acid were also used with 10% KOH to see the effect of changes in Acetic Acid concentration. Results and Observations: Solution of Keratin made in 10% KOH & 10% Acetic acid made a homogenous solution of keratin and gave positive results with all protein color reactions. Ninhydrin test, Hopkincole test, Xanthoproteic test and Millon test was negative with keratin in 40% KOH solution. Conclusion: 10% KOH and 10% Acetic acid should be used for Keratin dissolution and its protein color reactions.