Bovine albumin
[CAS# 9048-46-8]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Natural biochemical product
• Name: Bovine albumin
• Synonyms: Bovine serum albumin
• Molecular Weight: ~66000
• CAS Registry Number: 9048-46-8
• EC Number: 232-936-2

Properties

• Solubility: Soluble 40 mg/mL (water)

Safety Data

• Safety Description: S24/25

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334

Discovory and Applicatios

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) is a globular protein extracted from bovine serum. Its discovery dates back to the late 19th century when scientists began to isolate and identify proteins from animal blood. BSA was identified as the main component of bovine serum and has become one of the most widely used proteins in biochemical and biomedical research due to its stability, solubility, and multiple applications.

BSA belongs to the albumin family and is characterized by its globular shape and water solubility. It consists of a polypeptide chain folded into three homologous domains, each containing two subdomains. BSA has a molecular weight of approximately 66.5 kDa and a sequence of 583 amino acids. Its structure includes binding sites for various ligands such as fatty acids, hormones, and metal ions, making it versatile in biochemical interactions.

BSA exerts its functions through physical and biochemical interactions. Its hydrophobic pockets and binding sites enable it to interact with a variety of molecules, including enzymes, antibodies, and small ligands. BSA facilitates many biochemical and biomedical applications by stabilizing enzymes, blocking nonspecific binding in assays, and providing essential nutrients in cell culture.

BSA is often added to enzyme solutions to stabilize their activity during storage and use. It maintains the structure and function of enzymes under varying conditions such as temperature and pH changes, ensuring reliable performance in biochemical assays and industrial processes.

In immunoassays, BSA can be used as a blocking agent to minimize nonspecific binding of antibodies or other proteins to solid surfaces. By coating plates or membranes with BSA, researchers can enhance the specificity and sensitivity of the assay, ensuring accurate detection of target molecules.

BSA is used as a standard protein in colorimetric assays, such as the Bradford assay, to quantify the concentration of unknown proteins in solution. Its known binding properties and stable absorbance properties at specific wavelengths make BSA a reliable reference for protein concentration determination.

BSA is used as a serum replacement or supplement in cell culture media. It provides nutrients, hormones, and growth factors necessary for cell growth and proliferation. BSA helps maintain optimal conditions for cell viability and function in vitro, supporting cell biology and biotechnology research.

BSA is generally considered safe for laboratory use, but should be handled with standard precautions to avoid contamination and degradation. BSA solutions should be prepared using aseptic technique and stored at the recommended temperature to maintain stability. As with any protein material, appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn, including gloves and a lab coat.

References

2013. Clinical use of albumin. Blood transfusion = Trasfusione del sangue, 11.
DOI: 10.2450/2013.005s

2010. Native albumin for targeted drug delivery. Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery, 7(6).
DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2010.498474

2003. Crystal structural analysis of human serum albumin complexed with hemin and fatty acid. BMC Molecular and Cell Biology, 3.
DOI: 10.1186/1472-6807-3-6