Role of DMSO in Cell fusion. - (May/31/2006 )

hi all ! in the fusion process to produce hybridomas, PEG-DMSO solution is used. while the function of PEG is fusion what could be the function of DMSO. i read a reseach article which says that addition of DMSO at the right time and right amounts enhances the capability of hybridomas to produce monoclonal antibodies.
but PEG-DMSO is also used in other non-traditional fusion processes like fusion of platelets with mitochondrial free cell line. here definitely its function is not enhancement of monoclonal production capability of the hybrids. my question is what is the exact role of DMSO in the fusion process ? does it act as an enhancer of the fusion process? if yes can you please let me know the way it does that
thanking you in advance

hi all ! in the fusion process to produce hybridomas, PEG-DMSO solution is used. while the function of PEG is fusion what could be the function of DMSO. i read a reseach article which says that addition of DMSO at the right time and right amounts enhances the capability of hybridomas to produce monoclonal antibodies.
but PEG-DMSO is also used in other non-traditional fusion processes like fusion of platelets with mitochondrial free cell line. here definitely its function is not enhancement of monoclonal production capability of the hybrids. my question is what is the exact role of DMSO in the fusion process ? does it act as an enhancer of the fusion process? if yes can you please let me know the way it does that
thanking you in advance

hi pichiapostaris thank for the reply. but i wonder DMSO itself is harmful to the cell and after thawing a cryopreserved vial ,DMSO should be either completely removed or diluted to a negligible concentration .