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Many test compounds (drugs, inhibitors, etc) are not soluble in water and therefore dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is used as a solvent instead. The compound dissolved in DMSO is what is used to treat the cell or animal and therefore you must prove that it is the compound, not the DMSO which is causing any results seen. To ensure this, you have a control that contains only DMSO and not the test compound. This is often referred to as a "vehicle control".

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How do cryoprotectants work especially DMSO?

Cryoprotectants work as an antifreeze to prevent formation of ice crystals and aid in the process of vitrification, a method of converting biological tissue into a strange kind of low-temperature glass that is totally free of ice crystals. Two Cryoprotectants are glycerol and DMSO (DiMethyl SulfOxide) which, when used together, enhances cryroprotection as much as double than when used alone, possibly because of a decrease in toxic effect. They work by diffusing into cells and replacing much of the body's water. Deb


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Related Questions

When to Use dmso or glycerol?

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is commonly used as a cryoprotectant for freezing cells, while glycerol is often used as a stabilizer for enzymes and proteins. The choice between DMSO and glycerol depends on the specific application and the stability requirements of the biological material being used.


What is the difference betwen DMSO and DMSO-d6 solution?

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a common organic solvent, whereas DMSO-d6 is a deuterated form of DMSO used in NMR spectroscopy as a solvent. The "d6" indicates that the hydrogen atoms in DMSO have been replaced with deuterium, making it suitable for NMR analysis due to the absence of NMR-active protons.


Is DMSO a protic or aprotic solvent?

DMSO is an aprotic solvent.


Is DMSO a strong nucleophile?

Yes, DMSO is a strong nucleophile.


What are the possible impurities in dmso?

Possible impurities in DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) can include water, dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl sulfone, acetone, and other organic compounds. These impurities can affect the stability and purity of DMSO, altering its properties and potential uses. Regular purification methods such as distillation or filtration are typically used to remove impurities from DMSO.


What is the significance of the DMSO azeotrope in chemical processes and how does it affect the overall efficiency of the reaction?

The DMSO azeotrope is important in chemical processes because it helps to remove water from reactions involving dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). This azeotrope formation allows for better control of the reaction conditions and can improve the efficiency of the reaction by preventing side reactions or unwanted byproducts.


What is the role of DMSO in cell culture?

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is commonly used in cell culture as a cryoprotectant to prevent ice crystal formation and cell damage during freezing and thawing of cells. It helps preserve cell viability and functionality when cells are stored at low temperatures. DMSO is also used as a solvent for some compounds and reagents in cell culture experiments.


Smell after using dmso?

DMSO can have a garlic-like smell when it reacts with compounds on your skin. This effect is temporary and should dissipate once the DMSO is fully absorbed or evaporated. It's important to use DMSO in a well-ventilated area to minimize the smell.


How to mix DMSO with water effectively?

To mix DMSO with water effectively, slowly add the DMSO to the water while stirring continuously. This will help prevent the DMSO from clumping or separating from the water. It is important to mix the two substances thoroughly to ensure a homogeneous solution.


Why is DMSO used in PCR?

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is used in PCR to facilitate the denaturation of DNA at high temperatures by destabilizing the secondary structure of DNA. It can also help to improve the specificity and yield of PCR reactions by preventing the formation of secondary structures that can inhibit the amplification process. Additionally, DMSO can help reduce the formation of primer dimers and nonspecific amplification products.


What is size of DMSO molecule?

The molecular formula of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is C2H6OS. The molecular weight of this molecule is approximately 78.13 grams per mole. In terms of size, DMSO has a molecular diameter of about 6.9 angstroms.


What is the freezing point of DMSO?

The freezing point of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is 18.5 degrees Celsius (65.3 degrees Fahrenheit).