Separation and Characterization of Zinc Absorption-Promoting Substance in Zinc-rich Fraction Prepared from Oyster

Abstract

We have already prepared a zinc rich fraction (ZRF) from oyster and estimated that the ZRF contained a zinc absorption-promoting substance (FC substance). In the present study, we attempt to separate and characterize the FC substance. When the ZRF was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with a column of Asahipak GS-220 and a mobile phase of 1% acetic acid, more than ten peaks were detected in absorption at 254 nm. Among these peaks, one peak co-eluted with zinc was recovered as “FC fraction” estimated to contain the FC substance. Amino acid analysis showed peptide(s) rich in lysine and histidine was present in the FC fraction.