How Is the N-Terminal Amino Acid Position Determined? Can It Be Defined Arbitrarily?
To accurately determine the specific amino acid sequence position of a protein's N-terminus (amino terminus), the following steps should be considered:
Identifying the N-Terminal Sequence Position
The N-terminal sequence refers to the initial region of a protein or polypeptide chain, typically starting with the first amino acid residue in the sequence.
Defining the N-Terminus in Functional Domains or Signal Peptides
In certain contexts, such as studies on functional domains or signal peptides, the definition of the N-terminus may require greater specificity. Signal peptides are generally cleaved post-translation, meaning that the mature protein’s N-terminus may begin at the second or third amino acid position instead of the first.
Experimental Approaches for Verification
The precise position and sequence of the N-terminus can be experimentally determined using techniques such as N-terminal amino acid sequencing (Edman degradation) or mass spectrometry-based methods (e.g., MS/MS).
Referencing Databases and Literature
Established protein databases, such as UniProt, along with published literature, provide valuable reference data on known N-terminal sequences, offering reliable sources for sequence validation.
MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.
Related Services
How to order?
