Biology
DMSO is used in PCR to inhibit secondary structures in the DNA template or the DNA primers. It is added to the PCR mix before reacting, where it interferes with the self-complementarity of the DNA, minimizing interfering reactions.
DMSO may also be used as a cryoprotectant, added to cell media to reduce ice formation and thereby prevent cell death during the freezing process. Approximately 10% may be used with a slow-freeze method, and the cells may be frozen at −80 °C or stored in liquid nitrogen safely.
DMSO has been used as a co-solvent to assist absorption of the flavonol glycoside Icariin into the C.Elegans nematode worm.
In cell culture, DMSO is used to induce differentation of P19 embryonic carcinoma cells into cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle cells.
Read more about this topic: Dimethyl Sulfoxide, Applications
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