Effect of Magnesium Concentration on Lactase Activity: A Comparative Analysis of Glucose Production

Abstract

This experiment studied the effect of varying magnesium concentrations (0 mM, 1 mM, 3 mM, and 5 mM) on the activity of the lactase by focusing on glucose concentration as an indicator of lactase activity. Magnesium is known to function as a cofactor that enhances the lactase activity. The experimental setup included four different magnesium concentration groups and measurements of glucose concentration after a certain amount of time to determine the impact of magnesium on lactase activity. A two-way ANOVA was performed to evaluate lactase activity across the groups, considering two independent variables: time and magnesium concentration. The results indicated that lower magnesium concentrations optimized lactase activity, while higher concentrations inhibited the enzyme and slowed lactose hydrolysis.