DMSO: A Universal Cryoprotectant for Cell Experiments
Time：2024-04-02 Hits：163
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a sulfur-containing organic compound commonly abbreviated as DMSO, boasts exceptional solubility and is renowned as the "universal solvent". Its versatility extends to dissolving a broad spectrum of organic substances, encompassing carbohydrates, polymers, peptides, as well as numerous inorganic salts and gases. Beyond its role as a solvent, DMSO finds utility across various domains including organic synthesis, acting as a reaction medium and an intermediate. Additionally, it serves as a solvent for dyeing, facilitating the removal of dyes and serving as a carrier in synthetic fiber dyeing processes. Furthermore, it operates as an absorbent for the recovery of acetylene and sulfur dioxide.
In the realm of chemical reactions, DMSO serves as a polar aprotic solvent, notably in techniques such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Moreover, its efficacy as a cryoprotective vitrification agent renders it invaluable in the preservation of cells, tissues, and organs. Specifically, DMSO plays a pivotal role in cell freezing media, shielding cells from the detrimental effects of ice crystal formation. Its application spans across the cryopreservation of primary, subcultured, and recombinant cell lines, including aneuploid and hybridoma cell lines, embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and hematopoietic stem cells. Often, DMSO is utilized in conjunction with bovine serum albumin (BSA) or fetal bovine serum (FBS) to enhance its efficacy.
DMSO stands as a universal cryoprotectant in cell experiments, embodying unparalleled versatility in cell preservation techniques.
DMSO plays a pivotal role in cell experiments, primarily serving two functions.
Cell Cryopreservation Agent:
DMSO is widely utilized as a cryoprotectant for cells, although with a degree of toxicity. To mitigate its adverse effects, concentrations are typically maintained below 10% of the final volume during usage. For cells with lower tolerance, concentrations may be further reduced, such as to 8%. It's imperative to promptly wash away DMSO during cell recovery to prevent serious toxicity. Research indicates that even at concentrations as low as 0.04%, DMSO adversely affects cell growth, with nearly 100% inhibition at 10% concentration and 35% inhibition at 1%.
Solvent for Compound Administration:
In administering lytic compounds to cells, precise control over DMSO dosage is crucial. Different cells exhibit varying sensitivities to DMSO content. Presently, it's widely accepted to limit the final DMSO concentration when preparing compounds for cell administration to 0.1%. This translates to a maximum volume of 1 μl of DMSO per 1 ml of culture medium. If this ratio is exceeded, reducing DMSO volume by increasing drug concentration or employing multi-step dilution in the aqueous phase is recommended.
Usage and Precautions:
Avoid Skin Contact: Due to its small molecular weight, DMSO can readily penetrate the skin, potentially causing local irritation reactions like itching and burning sensations. To mitigate exposure, prepare 1%-5% ammonia water for use in case of skin staining, and promptly wash with water and diluted ammonia. Additionally, avoid contact with DMSO solutions containing other toxic substances, as DMSO facilitates the penetration of toxins into the skin.
Prevent Inhalation: Inhalation of DMSO may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and characteristic odors resembling garlic or onion. Prolonged exposure or high concentrations can impact neurological function and induce hemolysis. Minimize evaporation during usage to mitigate inhalation risks.
Product Information
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Brand
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Item number
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CAS
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product
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Packaging
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Seebio
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67-68-5
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Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
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500ml/4L
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Product Parameters
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Purity
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≥99.0%
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Moisture
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≤0.2%
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Density
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1.098~1.106
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Refractive index(20℃)
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1.478~1.480
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Crystal point
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18.0~20.0℃
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Appearance
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Clear colorless liquid
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References:
[1] Liu Er, Wang Jinbing. Cytotoxicity of the cell cryoprotectant dimethyl sulfoxide [J]. Chinese Journal of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 1994(4):50-52.
[2] Jia Guorong, Xie Bo. Current research status at home and abroad on the safety of clinical application of dimethyl sulfoxide [J]. International Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2010, 31(11):1284-1286.
[3] Qi W, Ding D, Salvi R J. Cytotoxic effects of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) on cochlear organotypic cultures[J]. Hearing Research, 2008, 236(1-2):52-60.