Chaotropic agent
Chaotropic agent
A chaotropic agent (pronounced: /kaɪˈɒtrəpɪk/), is a molecule in the field of biochemistry that disrupts the hydrogen bonds in water molecules. This disruption increases the solubility of nonpolar molecules and biopolymers such as proteins and nucleic acids.
Etymology
The term "chaotropic" is derived from the Greek words "chaos" meaning "disorder" and "tropos" meaning "turn". It refers to the ability of these agents to disrupt the ordered structure of water and other molecules.
Function
Chaotropic agents are often used in laboratory settings to denature proteins and nucleic acids, thereby allowing for their study and manipulation. They function by interfering with the intramolecular interactions mediated by non-covalent forces such as hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic effects. This interference can lead to the denaturation of the molecule or a change in its three-dimensional structure.
Examples
Common examples of chaotropic agents include urea, guanidinium chloride, and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). These agents are often used in the isolation and purification of nucleic acids and proteins.
Related Terms
- Hydrophobic effect
- Denaturation
- Hydrogen bond
- Biochemistry
- Protein
- Nucleic acid
- Urea
- Guanidinium chloride
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chaotropic agent
- Wikipedia's article - Chaotropic agent
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