What is kovacs reagent?

Kovacs reagent, also known as p-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde reagent, is a biochemical reagent used to detect and identify indole derivatives, such as tryptophan, in biological samples. It is named after its inventor, Miklos Kovacs.

Kovacs reagent is a colorless liquid that becomes yellow to red when it reacts with indole compounds under acidic conditions. The reaction involves the formation of a red-colored compound called rosindole which can be easily detected by visual inspection or in a spectrophotometer. Kovacs reagent is commonly used in microbiological and clinical laboratories for the detection of indole-producing bacteria, such as E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which are responsible for various infections in humans.

Kovacs reagent is prepared by dissolving p-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde in hydrochloric acid and then adding isoamyl alcohol. It is a hazardous substance and should be handled with caution due to its toxicity and flammability.