Cystathionine Beta Synthase (EC 4.2.1.22, CBetaS) is a PLP-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the formation of H2S and cystathionine when using cysteine and homocysteine as substrates. Known for its role in human sulfur metabolism, mutations in the gene encoding CBetaS can result in high concentrations of homocysteine in plasma. Elevated circulating concentrations of homocysteine result in genetic disorders including Homocysteinuria and Down syndrome. Specifically, Homocysteinuria is an autosomal recessive disease with clinical manifestations including mental retardation, thromboembolism and connective tissue defects. Hydrogen sulfide, CBetaS product, is an important gaseous mediator, like nitric oxide, that has significant effects on the immunological, neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems of mammals. Assay Genie's Cystathione Beta Synthase Assay Kit utilizes cysteine and homocysteine as substrates to produce H2S. Hydrogen sulfide reacts with the azido-functional group of the fluorescent probe yielding a fluorescent amino group (Ex/Em = 368/460 nm). The assay is highly sensitive, has a simple easy-to-follow protocol, and can detect as low as 1.45 mU of CBetaS activity.

Figure: (a) CβS Standard Curve, (b) CβS activity in Liver Lysate (20 µg) Positive Control (1.5 µg) (c) CβS specific activity in HepG2 cell lysate and Liver lysate. Assays were performed following the kit protocol.