CHAPS丨CAS 75621-03-3

CHAPS丨CAS 75621-03-3 is a zwitterionic detergent derived from cholic acid. It combines a steroid-based hydrophobic region with a hydrophilic sulfonate and quaternary ammonium group, making it especially valuable for membrane protein solubilization and non-denaturing biochemical applications. It is often used in protein purification, 2D electrophoresis, and membrane protein extraction due to its mildness and ability to preserve protein activity.

1. Membrane Protein Solubilization

Solubilizes membrane-bound proteins without denaturation, maintaining enzymatic and structural integrity.

Particularly suitable for isolating G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), transporters, and ion channels.

Forms micelles (CMC ≈ 6–10 mM), enabling effective solubilization in aqueous environments.

2. 2D Gel Electrophoresis (2-DE)

Commonly used in isoelectric focusing (IEF) of proteins as a nonionic alternative to SDS.

Enhances resolution and reduces protein aggregation, particularly in the first dimension of 2D electrophoresis.

3. Protein Purification and Crystallography

Ideal for use in affinity chromatography or IMAC purification workflows involving His-tagged proteins.

Often selected in X-ray crystallography and NMR studies of membrane proteins due to its ability to preserve native folding.

4. Cell Lysis and Fractionation

Used in cell and tissue lysis buffers where a non-denaturing agent is preferred.

Suitable for subcellular fractionation, particularly when separating membrane compartments from cytosolic proteins.

1. Zwitterionic Nature

CHAPS丨CAS 75621-03-3 carries both positive and negative charges, minimizing protein denaturation.

Maintains electrical neutrality, reducing interference in downstream applications such as IEF or mass spectrometry.

2. Non-denaturing Detergent

Unlike SDS, CHAPS does not disrupt protein–protein or protein–ligand interactions, making it ideal for functional protein studies.

3. Low UV Absorbance

Exhibits minimal absorbance at 280 nm, making it compatible with UV detection in protein quantification and chromatography.

4. High Purity and Compatibility

Available in ultrapure forms (e.g., >99%) that are electrophoresis-grade and mass spectrometry-compatible.

Can be used in combination with other detergents or buffers in custom formulations.

CHAPS (CAS 75621-03-3) is a highly effective zwitterionic detergent widely used in protein chemistry, membrane biology, and proteomics. Its ability to solubilize without denaturing, along with its compatibility with electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, makes it a standard choice in labs worldwide for sensitive protein extraction and analysis.