Avidin, Egg White

Avidin is a tetrameric glycoprotein and an anti-nutrient found in the eggs of all oviparous vertebrates. It constitutes 0.05–0.5% of the total protein in hen eggs. Avidin structure contains eight orthogonal antiparallel β-strands, a single disulfide bond, and a carbohydrate side chain.

Avidin, Egg White has been used as a blocking agent in protein-binding assays. It has also been used to form avidin-biotin linkage to conjugate gemcitabine onto microbubbles for drug delivery to in vivo model.

Avidin can be used as a label for antibodies, fluorescent dyes, proteins,, and other molecules of interest to biochemists. The high binding affinity of avidin to biotin (vitamin H) causes the unavailability of biotin to microorganisms, which leads to the inhibition of their proliferation. This feature of avidin contributes to its antimicrobial property and affects biotin absorption in the body, resulting in vitamin B7 deficiency.

Following reconstitution, store in the refrigerator (4°C). Stock solutions are stable for up to 6 months at 4°C. Avoid freeze/thaw cycles.

One unit is defined as the amount of avidin that will bind 1 µg D-biotin at pH 8.9.

CALBIOCHEM is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Toxicity: Standard Handling (A)