Lipase

Lipase is a digestive enzyme that hydrolyses the ester bonds of triglycerides to release fatty acids and glycerol (propylene glycol).  As the reaction proceeds, the pH decreases as a result of the rising concentration of carboxylic acids.  This means it is very convenient to monitor the progress of the reaction by measuring pH.  To get a visual result, phenolphthalein can be used as an indicator.  The slightly alkaline starting pH causes the indicator to appear pink, but this changes to colourless as the reaction proceeds.  With this enzyme, we suggest using full cream milk as the source of triglycerides.

Suggested Protocol Note:

There is a different protocol for each type of lipase

 - supplier and enzyme activity level is different.

The suppliers are coded as the last letter on the product code of vial.

Suggested Protocol for MC23.41 E

Suggested experimental protocol (new window, 0.1M, pdf format)

Suggested Protocol for MC23.41 M

Suggested experimental protocol (new window, 0.1M, pdf format)

Enzyme FAQ (new window)

Enzyme overview (new window, 0.1M, pdf format)

Enzyme MSDS -  Generic Enzyme Material Safety Data Sheet (new window, 0.1M, pdf format)