I had a simple question about DNA binding protein. Is there an easy way to detect if your heterologously expressed protein is bound to DNA post purification.
Yes. UV absorbance. DNA absorbs UV strongly, proteins do not. DNA absorbs 260 more thn 280, the opposite is true for proteins. In fact, it's always a good idea to check 260/280 ratio because quite frequently even non-DNA binding proteins purified by a single tag affinity chromatography contain enough DNA to skew estimation of protein concentration from 280 nm absorbance by several fold (9X in one case of my personal experience).
Also is there an easy way to strip the protein of DNA without any damage done to the protein in doing so.
No generic solution. Greatly depends on the protein and its properties. Dima
