Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)

Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless solvent with the formula (CH3)2SO. DMSO is a PCR additive that functions in helping denature template and primer DNA, such as when the GC content is high. It may also aid in relaxing supercoiled plasmids for amplification. If added, the working concentration in a typical PCR reaction can range from 3 to 10 percent. DMSO is also used as a cryoprotectant, protecting cells during the freezing process by reducing ice formation.