Triglyceride(TG) is a fat molecule formed by long-chain fatty acids and glycerol, which is not only the
main component of cell membrane, but also an important respiratory substrate. The TG is extracted with
isopropyl alcohol, then hydrolysis to glycerol and fatty acids after saponification of TG by KOH. Glycerol
is oxidized by periodic acid to form formaldehyde. Condensation of formaldehyde and acetylacetone to
form yellow components in presence of chloride ions. The yellow component has a characteristic
absorption at 420 nm and proportional to the TG content.
Reagents and Equipment Required but Not Provided:
Spectrophotometer/microplate reader, micro glass cuvette/96 well flat-bottom plate, n-heptane, isopropyl
alcohol, water bath, adjustable pipette, distilled water and 125 mL of empty bottle.