Beta mercaptoethanol? - (Oct/25/2005 )

What is the purpose of adding Beta mercaptoethanol in a transformation reaction other than increasing output? What does it actually do?

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I'm not sure what is it's function in transformation but in protein analysis (like as it is used in SDS-page), it disrupt protein from its tertiary structure or to break double bonds and help to denature the protein.

Lyndza

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I believe the role of reducing agents like BME or DTT is to inactivate surface exposed nucleases and other proteins that may adversely impact transformation efficiency.

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