Protein Fragments
Enzymatic cleavage of hair structural proteins yields specific short chains of amino acids that serve as analytical markers for animal species. These fragments, known as keratin peptides, are released when the insoluble fiber matrix is chemically reduced, alkylated, and digested with trypsin. Laboratories analyze these soluble markers via mass spectrometry to identify the presence of cashmere, wool, or yak fiber in textile samples.
This method allows for the identification of fibers that have lost their physical shape during yarn manufacturing.
Digest Verification
Complete digestion of the fiber is necessary to release these markers into the liquid phase. Incomplete reaction leaves the proteins partially intact, which reduces the signal strength and leads to incorrect composition estimates. Proper incubation time and enzyme concentration ensure that a consistent pattern of these fragments is obtained.
Chemical Marker
Unique sequences within these protein fragments distinguish closely related animals. While sheep wool and cashmere are morphological cousins, their respective markers contain different amino acids that translate to distinct mass signatures. These differences are easily read by mass spectrometers.
Industrial Application
Quality control teams use these molecular signatures to audit suppliers and ensure that raw materials match the high standards of luxury fashion brands.
