SIMPLE, RELIABLE RAPID-MIXING APPARATUS FOR CONTINUOUS-FLOW STUDIES

We have developed a simple and economical system for rapid mixing of solutions where a continuous-flow, chemically quenched mode of operation is appropriate. This has proved especially useful for studies of pyruvate dehydrogenase which produces a stable, enzyme-bound intermediate when the terminal acceptors are absent. It has also proved convenient for studies of the overall reaction in which fluorescence of pyridine nucleotide can be measured after quenching in alkaline solution. Syringes containing reactants are driven by a Harvard infusion pump, which provides sufficient speed and power (torque) to give good mixing with conventional commercially available mixing chambers and delay lines. Liquid chromatography fittings and valves are used for the switching operations necessary in the continuous-flow mode. © 1979.