The solubilizing properties of the protein-detergent complex

Abstract

Solubilization of oil-soluble substances, not observed in sodium alkyl sulfate solutions below the critical micelle concentration, does occur if protein is present in the detergent solutions. The extent of solubilization was studied as a function of detergent concentration, pH, salt concentration, carbon chain length of detergent, and the structure of the dyes used. The protein detergent complex, and not an altered protein, was responsible for the solubilization of oil-soluble dyes in alkyl sulfate solutions below the critical micelle concentrations of these detergents. These experiments suggested that the form of the detergent on the protein was that of a small aggregate which had properties similar to micelles that exist above the critical micelle concentrations of pure detergent solutions.