Merck, D141-500MG, Digitonin

Digitonin, a steroidal saponin extracted from the purple foxglove plant (Digitalis purpurea), stands as a versatile non-ionic detergent crucial for cell biology and biochemical research. Its unique attributes position it as a valuable asset in the exploration of cellular membranes, membrane proteins, and intracellular components. Digitonin′s key properties and applications include its ability to solubilize membrane-bound proteins effectively while preserving their native conformation, making it an ideal tool for studying membrane protein interactions and activities. Moreover, Digitonin selectively permeabilizes the cholesterol-rich plasma membrane, leaving organelle membranes intact. This feature facilitates the extraction and purification of specific organelles, contributing to the study of their functions and roles in cellular processes. The detergent′s capability to permeabilize diverse cell types allows the study of intracellular components and processes by introducing molecules, antibodies, or enzymes into cells. Additionally, Digitonin finds application in immunocytochemistry experiments, enabling the labeling and detection of intracellular proteins and structures.