Some proteins are soluble in aqueous solutions and some are not. Insoluble proteins can be a problem because the proteins can form large aggregates in solution which are difficult to purify, crystallize, and use in experiments. Compare the amino acid sequence and 3-D structures of some soluble and insoluble proteins (Berman, 2000). Is the structure polar or non-polar, and how might this affect solubility? How do detergents make an insoluble protein more soluble? Investigate how this technology is used to make cleaning products that are designed to break up the biochemical particulate matter that create stains on clothing and other surfaces.

Concepts

amino acids, biotechnology

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Additional Tags

proteins, science fair project, science buddies, science project, solubility of proteins

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Classroom Considerations

• Knovation Readability Score: 4 (1 low difficulty, 5 high difficulty)