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Post Electrophoretic Analysis Articles

Buffer Additives-Reducing Agents

Mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitolDisulfide bonds between or within sample protein molecules can lead to the formation of aggregates as well as play a role in the binding of the subunits of many proteins. It is usually desirable to cleave disulfide linkages prior to the protein electrophoresis. For this reason, disulfide bond reducing agents, such as 2-mercaptoethanol or dithiothreitol, are typically present in sample buffers. These substances can also be added to the cathode tank. However, 2-mercaptoethanol or dithiothreitol are typically not added to the gel casting solution because their presence inhibits gelation.

 

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