In the realm of biomedical research, specific compounds play crucial roles in diagnostic assays and enzymatic studies. One such compound is Ethyliden-4-Nitrophenyl-α-D-Maltoheptaosid (EPS), which is gaining prominence for its application as a substrate in α-amylase assays. This article provides an in-depth look at EPS, its significance in medical diagnostics, and its market presence globally.

EPS Overview

EPS, with the CAS number 96597-16-9, is a compound predominantly utilized in the biomedical sector, particularly in research applications. This compound, also referred to as 4,6-Ethyliden-P-Nitrophenyl-α-D-Maltoheptaoside, is manufactured in China under strict storage conditions requiring a temperature range of 2-8°C to maintain its stability. The purity of EPS is standardized at 90%, and it serves as a key substrate for α-amylase, an enzyme that is instrumental in the diagnosis of various pancreatic and salivary gland disorders.

Market Supply

The global market for EPS is well-catered to, with the minimum order quantity being as low as 1g, as reported by ChemicalBook. Shipments of this essential compound for medical research are dispatched from Shanghai, indicating a robust supply chain that supports the worldwide demand for EPS.

Application Scope

The primary application of EPS is in the measurement of α-amylase activity. It is a critical component in the research and development and large-scale preparation of α-amylase (AMY) reagents using the EPS substrate method. This method is widely used in laboratories and hospitals for the accurate diagnosis of conditions such as acute pancreatitis and salivary gland diseases.

α-Amylase Product Significance

α-Amylase is a vital biomarker for acute pancreatitis and other abdominal conditions. The sensitivity and specificity of α-amylase in diagnosing acute pancreatitis are notably high, ranging from 73% to 79% and 82% to 84%, respectively. Beyond acute pancreatitis, α-amylase levels can also be elevated in other acute abdominal conditions, chronic pancreatitis, and even in the early stages of pancreatic cancer, making it a versatile diagnostic tool.

α-Amylase Experimental Substrates

The effectiveness of α-amylase assays relies on the quality of the substrates used. EPS is part of a family of substrates that include maltose/maltotrioside (G2/G3-CNP), α-(2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl)-β-1,4-galactosyl-maltosidase, 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl-maltotrisidase, and maltoheptaose (EPS) itself, which is 4,6-Ethyliden-P-nitrophenyl-α-D-maltoheptaoside. These substrates are essential for the accurate measurement of α-amylase activity.

Enzymatic EPS

Product Information
Appearance	White to light yellow powder
CAS Number	96597-16-9
Molecular Formula	C50H77NO38
Molecular Weight	1300.1
Storage Conditions	2-8℃Sealed, dry, protected from light
Shelf Life	2 years

Market Volume

The market for heptaose substrates for amylase in China is substantial, with approximately 150 registered manufacturers. The domestic market volume is around 100kg, with a market scale exceeding 30 million yuan. Internationally, the market is dominated by G2 and G3 substrates, with a trend towards G7 substrates. The foreign market volume is conservatively estimated to be over 20kg, with a market scale exceeding 6 million.

EPS Product Quality Standards

	Manufacture A	HzymesActual Measurement	HzymesQuality Standard
Appearance	Yellow powder	White to slightly yellow	/
EPS Content (Enzymatic Method)EPS（HPLC）	90% 94-95%	/ 97%	/ 91%
Moisture (KF)	＜3%	2%	＜3%
Free p-Nitrophenol	0.01%	0.01%	0.01%
pNPG7 Content	<0.3%	<0.1%	<0.3%

Conclusion

EPS plays a pivotal role in the diagnostics of α-amylase-related conditions, offering a reliable substrate for accurate assays. With a significant market presence both domestically and internationally, the demand for EPS and its related products is expected to continue growing, highlighting the importance of quality standards and customer satisfaction in this niche but critical field. As the market evolves, the trend towards G7 substrates suggests a continuous drive for innovation and improvement in diagnostic accuracy.