Determination of molecular weights from selected protein fractions obtained from Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) seeds

Abstract

The Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) seed is considered to be a rich source of plant proteins that are essential for growth. Research attention has been directed towards increasing utilization of plant protein sources for food use, because of their unique functional properties, such as emulsification, fat and water absorption, texture modification, color control and whipping properties. Hence, this study aims to determine the molecular weights of purified soluble proteins from Cashew seed. The supernatant was purified by gel filtration column containing sephadex G-50. Five peaks were observed and concentrated by sucrose solution (4.0 M). The molecular weight of purified protein determined by SDS-PAGE showed five bands for fraction 3 with molecular weights 95,757.31 Da, 66,137.01 Da, 54,964.32 Da, 44,019.43 Da, and 27,208.13 Da respectively. Two out of the five possible proteins in fraction 3 was similar in weight to standard proteins Ovalbumin, 47.05 kDa; and Soybean trypsin inhibitor, 27.26 kDa respectively. Protein band of 44,019.43 kDa were observed in fractions 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively.