Submitted by: Date Submitted: November 26, 2012

Alexandra Regilyne M. Romero

Samantha Araullo
MILLON TEST FOR PROTEIN
I. Introduction
The word protein is derived from the Greek word proteios, which means of
primary importance. In fact, proteins plays an important role in all biochemical and
physiological body processes; they act as enzymes, hormones, receptors, antibodies and are
required for the structural integrity of cells.

II. Procedure
Add 10 drops of the sample to the test tube (Sample: Egg albumin, 2% gelatin,
and water)
Add 10 drops of Millon reagent to 10 drops of sample tube
Mix well and heat on water bath
Observe and note the change in color

III. Test reagent compound
Reagent: Millon Reagent
Composition: Mercuric Nitrate (10415-75-5) 38%, Nitric Acid (7697-370-2 ) 18%, and
Water (7732-18-5) 44%.

IV. Results

RESULTS
Egg Albumin + Millon reagent Light red solution and precipitate
Gelatin + Millon reagent Brick red solution and recipitate
Water + Millon reagent Colorless solution

V. Explanation
Millon's reagent (Hg/HNO3) gives positive results with proteins containing the
phenolic amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine is the only amino acid that contains a phenol
group on which a hydroxyl group is attached. Millon's reagent reacts with the tyrosine
residues and gives a positive result of red coloration to the solution.




Tyrosine C9H11NO3



VI. References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millon's_reagent
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gabriellevelasco/sets/72157624546602231/detail/
Amino acids.pdf