Merck, P2636-1G, Poly-L-lysine hydrobromide

Poly-L-lysine serves as a versatile and indispensable component in cell culture and biochemical research. It plays a pivotal role in promoting cell adhesion to solid substrates by enhancing the electrostatic interactions between the negatively charged ions of cell membranes and the positively charged ions of attachment factors on culture surfaces. This facilitates a secure binding of cells to the substratum, making Poly-L-lysine highly recommended for cell culture applications. Derived from the naturally occurring amino acid l-lysine, Poly-L-lysine is available in various forms, allowing for customization in terms of molecular weight and shape. As a synthetic positively charged polymer, it exists in two enantiomers, poly-D-lysine and poly-L-lysine, both of which have their unique applications. In formulation research, Poly-L-lysine proves to be valuable in nucleic acid delivery. Its positive charge, attributed to the ε-amine on its side chain at physiological pH, enables it to condense plasmid DNA effectively based on salt concentration. While Poly-L-lysine appears suitable for gene delivery, unmodified versions have been associated with low transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity. In conclusion, Poly-L-lysine offers a multifaceted solution in cell culture and formulation research, enhancing cell adhesion, enabling gene delivery, and contributing significantly to advancements in biochemical and cell biology research.