analysis of amino acids in protein supplements

[batman]

howzit. im doing an 'extended essay' for my high-school course in chemistry and i got really really stuck and i need some help.

i read that paper chromatography was one of many methods for protein analysis - as far as i know, the solvent will move at different rates for the different amino acids and show a different colour.... or something alike (corrections welcome).

now, i'm trying to use paper chromatography to find what amino acids are really in supplement proteins, in the forms of protein shakes - and see if these amino acids are really the amino acids that are super helpful for muscle building and all that. (or if supplement buyers are being ripped off lol)

if anyone knows a method for this experiment, please let me know. any help i can get will be much appreciated.

[tom jupille]

I'm sorry to tell you this, but you're in waaay over your head.

A protein consists of amino acids which are attached to each other (by "peptide bonds"). Before you can separate and measure the amino acids, you have to break up the protein. That's not difficult if you have the right equipment and chemicals and if you know what you're doing, but it's the kind of thing that would require your instructors help and participation to do well (and safely).

Maybe a better project would be to analyze for one or two free amino acids (like maybe lysine in tablets sold to prevent cold sores).