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Citrate Synthase

Updated: 2026-08-19

Overview

Citrate synthase (CS) is the first and rate-limiting enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, universally present in aerobic organisms. It catalyzes the condensation of acetyl-CoA and oxaloacetate to form citrate, a central metabolite. Discovered in 1937, CS is now a model enzyme for studying allosteric regulation and metabolic control. The enzyme exists as homodimers in most species, with each subunit containing distinct binding sites for substrates and regulators. Its activity is a key indicator of mitochondrial function, making it valuable for cellular respiration studies and disease research.

Physical and Chemical Properties

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As a globular protein, citrate synthase typically exhibits optimal activity at pH 7.5-8.0 and 25-37°C. The pig heart enzyme (a common commercial source) has a molecular weight of ~98 kDa per dimer. Thermal stability is moderate, with rapid denaturation above 60°C. Key structural features include a large cleft for substrate binding and conformational changes upon oxaloacetate binding. The enzyme is inhibited by ATP, NADH, and succinyl-CoA—mechanisms that link TCA cycle activity to cellular energy status. Spectrophotometric assays at 412 nm (DTNB method) are commonly used for activity measurement.

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Main Applications

In biotechnology, CS is utilized in metabolic pathway engineering to enhance flux toward citrate-derived products like itaconic acid. Pharmaceutical applications include its use as a biomarker for mitochondrial disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) through activity assays in tissue samples. Industrial-scale applications are limited by cost, but research-grade CS is essential for: 1) TCA cycle reconstitution studies, 2) enzymatic diagnostics (e.g., citrate detection in food/food), and 3) educational kits demonstrating metabolic principles. Engineered thermostable variants are being developed for continuous bioprocessing.

Safety and Storage

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While non-toxic, lyophilized CS powder may cause respiratory irritation. Use nitrile gloves and safety goggles when handling. Aqueous solutions are stable for 1 week at 4°C but should avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Long-term storage requires lyophilized form at -20°C with desiccant. Activity loss occurs at room temperature (~5% per month). Contamination by proteases is a major stability concern—verify purity via SDS-PAGE upon receipt. Shipping typically requires cold chain logistics for active enzyme preparations.

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B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing citrate synthase, specify: 1) Source organism (e.g., porcine, E. coli recombinant), 2) Activity (≥3 U/mg standard), and 3) Additives (e.g., glycerol stabilizers). Bulk orders (1g+) may qualify for 15-30% discounts from specialty enzyme suppliers. Key vendors include Sigma-Aldrich (CAS 9027-96-7), Roche Diagnostics, and BioVision. For GMP applications, request certificates of analysis (CoA) with endotoxin testing. Lead times vary: 2-4 weeks for custom recombinant forms versus immediate availability for standard porcine preparations. Consider requesting activity validation data for critical applications.

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