I'm designing a new activity for an undergraduate biology course about enzyme activity. I'm running into a slight complication. I've ordered a lyophilized powdered version of human salivary alpha amylase.
The issue is "how long can it be stored once dissolved?".
Most protocols say to use "freshly made" enzyme. But the amount needed for a lab section is too small to weigh out. Seriously, the bottle has 1000 Units and is only 10 milligrams. Diluting to 1 Unit/mL for a working concentration makes 1 Liter of enzyme solution. That is more than enough for an entire week of lab sections!
But, will it denature/lose too much activity in the refrigerator?
Looking for some practical advice!