Sigma-Aldrich Indole Assay Kit, sufficient for 100 colorimetric tests

The Sigma-Aldrich Indole Assay Kit is a specialized, highly sensitive colorimetric test designed for the detection and quantification of indole in biological and bacterial samples. It leverages a simple and fast methodology, making it an ideal tool for research in microbiology, biochemistry, and gastrointestinal disease studies.

Key Features

• Quick and Sensitive: Detect indole levels ranging from 3 to 100 μM within 10 minutes.
• Simple Procedure: Requires a single working reagent for detection, streamlining the process.
• Precision: Utilizes modified Ehrlich's and Kovac's reagents, yielding accurate colorimetric results at 565 nm.
• Broad Suitability: Applicable for indole determination in biological samples, including indole-positive bacteria.
• Versatility: Ideal for applications in bacterial culture analysis, gastrointestinal research, and metabolic studies.

Specifications

• Detection Range: 3–100 μM (linear range)
• Number of Tests: Sufficient for 100 colorimetric tests.
• Assay Format: Designed for 96-well plates, enabling high-throughput testing.
• Readout: Measures the intensity of the color change at 565 nm using a microplate reader.

Applications

1. Microbial Research:
   • Identify and classify indole-positive bacteria based on their ability to degrade tryptophan.
   • Study the role of indole as a bacterial signaling molecule influencing biofilm formation and virulence.
2. Gastrointestinal Disease Research:
   • Investigate indole metabolism by the gut microbiota and its impact on intestinal health.
   • Study the regulation of the intestinal epithelial barrier and immune response.
3. Neurochemistry and Metabolic Studies:
   • Explore indole's role as a precursor for neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin.
   • Analyze tryptophan metabolism pathways in various biological systems.

Principle of the Assay

The kit uses a modified version of Ehrlich's and Kovac's reagents, which react with indole to form a colored compound. The reaction is highly specific, and the resulting color intensity, measured at 565 nm, correlates directly with the concentration of indole in the sample.

Benefits

• Time Efficiency: Complete testing in just 10 minutes.
• Ease of Use: Requires minimal technical expertise, making it user-friendly.
• High Throughput: Compatible with 96-well plates for simultaneous testing of multiple samples.
• Accurate and Reliable: Delivers reproducible results with minimal variability.

Kit Contents

• Indole detection reagent (ready-to-use or requiring minor preparation).
• 96-well compatible assay buffer.
• Standard curve preparation components for calibration.

Use Cases

• Classification of bacteria in clinical microbiology.
• Evaluation of gut microbiota health in gastrointestinal research.
• Quantification of indole in pharmacological studies targeting serotonin/melatonin pathways.
• Biochemical investigations of tryptophan metabolism.

Storage and Handling

• Storage Conditions: Store as per product documentation, typically at 2–8°C.
• Shelf Life: Ensure all components are within the expiry date before use.
• Precautions: Follow the provided protocol and handle all reagents safely.

The Sigma-Aldrich Indole Assay Kit provides an efficient, accurate, and user-friendly method for the detection of indole. Its broad applicability in microbiology, gastrointestinal, and metabolic research makes it a valuable tool for understanding indole's role in biological systems.