A simple determination of hexosamines in column effluents

Abstract

A simple method of determinations of three hexosamines is presented. The solutions of hexosamines heated in 1 n NaOH at 60°C for 60 min, absorb ultraviolet light with the maximum at 302 nm. A linear relationship exists between the concentration of hexosamine up to 100 μg and the absorbance at 302 nm. N-acetylated hexosamines, having been deacetylated, may be determined in this way. The characteristic absorption curve ranging from 225 to 360 nm with the maximum at 302 nm may be utilized as a qualitative criterion for identification of hexosamines and N-acetylated hexosamines after their deacetylation.