Reducing agent - 2-Mercaptoethanol

The addition of a reducing agent to an assay may be important to prevent the oxidation of cysteines in the proteins being studied and thus the formation of disulfides. The most commonly used reducing agents are dithiothreitol (DTT), β-mercaptoethanol (β-ME) and tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP).

2-mercaptoethanol or β-mercaptoethanol or BME is a chemical compound of the formula HOCH2CH2SH, a "hybrid" of ethylene glycol and ethanedithiol. At room temperature it is a liquid with a foul-smelling odor. The presence of the thiol -SH function makes 2-mercaptoethanol a reducing agent widely used in biochemistry to protect proteins against oxidation.

The denaturation of proteins requires the reduction of disulfide bridges, which are crucial for the tertiary or quaternary structure of certain proteins. It is commonly used to reduce disulfide bridges present in proteins and can play a role as a biological antioxidant. It is also used because of its hydroxyl group, which makes it miscible in water and reduces the volatility (and therefore the odor) of thiol.

2-Mercaptoethanol is a powerful reducing agent used in cell culture media to prevent toxic levels of oxygen radicals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I quickly find a 2-mercaptoethanol product?

To find a 2-mercaptoethanol product, use the search function by name, product code, supplier, brand or sub-category. You can also browse the product families listed on the page to identify an available product code, an alternative or an equivalent product.

Does Biovalley stock several product codes in the 2-mercaptoethanol category?

Yes, Biovalley distributes several product references in the 2-mercaptoethanol category, sourced from specialist suppliers. Depending on the product family, references may vary in terms of format, packaging, brand, supplier, technical specifications or availability.

Can I request a quote for 2-mercaptoethanol products?

Yes, you can request a quote for 2-mercaptoethanol products from the product page or by contacting Biovalley (info@biovalley.fr). To help us process your enquiry, please provide, where possible, the product name, catalogue reference, required quantity, the supplier or brand you are looking for, and the country of delivery.

How can I find out if a 2-mercaptoethanol product is available to order?

The availability of a 2-mercaptoethanol product depends on the product code, supplier, packaging and country of delivery. For up-to-date information, please check the product details page or contact Biovalley with the product code or name of the product you are looking for.

What should I do if I cannot find the 2-mercaptoethanol product I am looking for?

If the 2-mercaptoethanol product you are looking for does not appear in the catalogue, please contact Biovalley with the available information: product name, reference number, supplier, brand, format or packaging. The team will be able to search for the reference number within its network of suppliers or suggest an available alternative.

Are all 2-mercaptoethanol products available under the same terms and conditions?

No. Ordering, delivery, storage and documentation conditions may vary depending on the product type, the supplier and the applicable regulations. Certain product codes may require specific approval, specialised transport, a safety data sheet or additional information prior to ordering.