X-Message-Number: 12666 Date: Fri, 29 Oct 1999 00:06:41 -0700 (PDT) From: Doug Skrecky <> Subject: DMSO harms cell membranes as well Authors Yu ZW. Quinn PJ. Institution Division of Life Sciences, King's College London, UK. Title The modulation of membrane structure and stability by dimethyl sulphoxide (review). [Review] [61 refs] Source Molecular Membrane Biology. 15(2):59-68, 1998 Apr-Jun. Abstract Dimethyl sulphoxide is a widely used agent in cell biology. It is well known as a cryoprotectant, cell fusogen and a permeability enhancing agent. These applications depend, to a greater or lesser extent, on the effect of dimethyl sulphoxide on the stability and dynamics of biomembranes. The aim of this review is to examine progress of the research which has been directed towards studies of the interactions between dimethyl sulphoxide and membranes, particularly that with the lipid components of cell membranes, as seen in its effects on model membrane systems. Models are proposed to explain the mechanism whereby dimethyl sulphoxide may mediate its effects on biological functions by its effects on the stability and properties of the membrane lipid matrix. [References: 61] Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=12666