Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Digitonin AR
Quantity/Pack Size – 1 gm
Form – White to off-white powder
Grade – Analytical Reagent (AR)
Application – Biochemical assays, cholesterol precipitation, cell permeabilization
product overview
Digitonin is a naturally occurring steroidal glycoside derived from the foxglove plant, *Digitalis purpurea*. Our Digitonin AR, meaning Analytical Reagent grade, assures exceptional purity and consistent quality, making it an indispensable compound for rigorous laboratory applications. This high level of purity is crucial for sensitive biochemical analyses, where even trace impurities can compromise experimental integrity. Its distinct chemical structure enables it to form stable, insoluble complexes with cholesterol and other sterols, a property extensively exploited in scientific research for the precise detection, precipitation, and quantification of cholesterol. This makes it invaluable for studies involving lipid metabolism and membrane composition.
Furthermore, Digitonin is widely utilized for its unique ability to selectively permeabilize the plasma membranes of eukaryotic cells without significantly disrupting the integrity of intracellular organelles. This controlled permeabilization mechanism, achieved through its interaction with membrane cholesterol, allows researchers to gain access to intracellular compartments. It facilitates the introduction of various molecules, such as antibodies, enzymes, or small probes, into the cell interior while largely preserving cellular function. This gentle action makes Digitonin a preferred agent over harsher detergents in numerous cell biology applications, including enzyme assays and immunocytochemistry. Its reliability and specificity contribute significantly to obtaining accurate and reproducible data across various scientific disciplines. The consistent performance of this AR grade Digitonin supports critical investigations in biochemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology, ensuring dependable outcomes for advanced research and analytical needs.
FAQs
1. What are the primary uses of Digitonin AR in a lab?
Digitonin AR is primarily used for the selective precipitation and quantification of cholesterol, as well as for controlled permeabilization of cell membranes in various biochemical and cell biology studies.
2. What are the recommended storage conditions for Digitonin AR?
For optimal preservation of its purity and efficacy, Digitonin AR should be stored in a cool, dry place, typically between 2-8°C, in a tightly sealed container away from direct light and moisture.
3. Can Digitonin AR be used with other common detergents?
While Digitonin itself functions as a permeabilizing agent, its compatibility with other detergents depends on the specific application and the desired outcome. Researchers often use it alone for selective permeabilization due to its gentle nature.
4. How does Digitonin AR permeabilize cell membranes?
Digitonin AR permeabilizes cell membranes by interacting specifically with cholesterol in the plasma membrane, forming pores that allow the passage of smaller molecules into the cell without significantly damaging internal organelles.
5. What is the significance of the “AR” grade for Digitonin?
The “AR” (Analytical Reagent) grade indicates a high level of purity, meaning the Digitonin has been tested and meets stringent standards for use in analytical work, ensuring minimal impurities that could interfere with sensitive experimental results.
