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The removal of protein from mineral surfaces: Implications for residue analysis of archaeological materials

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Oliver Craig, Dr Matthew Collins

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Abstract

Although there has been great interest and controversy concerning the detection of proteins in archaeological residues, very few studies have considered the effect of different extraction methods. Using well-defined control materials, this study compares the extraction efficiency of a number of different extraction reagents. Immunological and spectro-photometric assays are used to assess the amount of protein removed by each extraction method and the effectiveness is reported with reference to previous work. None of the previously reported methods were found to be effective at removing the protein from the mineral surface. We conclude that proteins are very strongly bound to the surface probably via short-range bonds. Although this may be encouraging for the long-term preservation of proteins in this context, extraction methods will have to be re-evaluated in order to achieve efficient recovery. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Craig OE, Collins MJ

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Archaeological Science

Year: 2002

Volume: 29

Issue: 10

Pages: 1077-1082

Print publication date: 01/10/2002

ISSN (print): 0305-4403

ISSN (electronic): 1095-9238

Publisher: Academic Press

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1006/jasc.2001.0757

DOI: 10.1006/jasc.2001.0757

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