CHAPS is a zwitterionic detergent that is widely used in the protein purification process. As part of this class of detergents, CHAPS contains both a positive and a negative group, but does not have a net overall charge. CHAPS has a relatively low biomembrane affinity, but is effective in inducing hemolysis and protein solubilization within specific concentration ranges. CHAPS is classified as a non-denaturing surfactant with a critical micelle concentration of 6-10mM.

Applications

In the laboratory, CHAPS and other zwitterionic detergents can be used for inducing cell lysis prior to protein isolation. It can also be used as a buffer in the 2D gel electrophoresis process, where it is in some cases favored over anionic detergents such as SDS. CHAPS can be removed from solutions through dialysis prior to protein analysis. Another technique leveraging a specialized resin and a spin column can also be used to efficiently remove CHAPS

• For monitoring chemical reactions or protein-protein binding using UV/VIS spectroscopy
• For ion exchange chromatography and isoelectric
• For membrane permeabilization of cells
• As a component in denaturing buffer in enzyme characterization

Molecular Weight: 614.9 Da

Chemical Formula: C₃₂H₅₈N₂O₇S

Solubility: Soluble in DMSO or DMF

Storage Temperature: Room Temperature