MILLON’S REAGENT (For Protein)

Millon’s Reagent is an analytical solution used to detect tyrosine and tyrosine-containing proteins. It is based on the presence of a phenol group, which makes tyrosine distinct among amino acids. This reagent is suitable for qualitative protein determination in laboratory tests.
In Millon’s test, tyrosine is nitrated by nitric acid in the phenol group. The resulting nitrated tyrosine binds to mercury(I) and mercury(II) ions from the solution in which the reaction takes place. This gives a typical pink to brick-red color or precipitate which indicates a positive test.
Some proteins containing tyrosine may initially produce a white precipitate that develops a red colour upon heating. Other samples may produce a red solution directly. Both reactions are considered positive for the presence of tyrosine-containing proteins.
Millon’s Reagent has a colourless to light greenish-yellow appearance and should be clear, without insoluble particles. The product is specified to pass the required sensitivity test.
The Reagent is intended for use in analytical and biochemistry laboratories for the determination of tyrosine or proteins that contain tyrosine. Appropriate laboratory safety practices should be observed during handling and testing, especially since the reagent contains a mercury compound and strong acidic material.

Detects tyrosine-containing proteins through development of a pink to brick-red colour or precipitate during Millon’s test.