Question

Membrane proteins are not soluble in water solutions. To purify and crystallize membrane proteins, the proteins need to be dissolved in a solution containing mild detergents such as Beta-octyl-glucopyranoside (see the structure below). Please explain how the detergents solubilize a membrane protein.

Answer 1

Detergents are knows as a class of molecules whose having unique properties to enable formation of hydrophobic-hydrophilic interaction among molecules in membrane. This unique property of detergents are used to dissolve membrane protein in water solution or in any solution.

Detergents are used to lyse cells, solubilize membrane lipids, and proteins, prevent protein crystalization, and nonspecific binding.