1 M DTT (dithiothreitol) recipe
A reducing agent that breaks protein disulfide bonds, used in sample buffers and enzyme reactions. It oxidises in solution, so aliquot and freeze.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| DTT | 1.542 g | 1 M |
| Water (distilled) | to final volume |
Steps
- Dissolve DTT in about 80% of the final volume of water and make up to volume.
- Filter-sterilise through 0.22 µm (do not autoclave).
- Aliquot 0.5–1 mL and store at −20 °C.
Good to know
- Thaw an aliquot only a few times; always add DTT fresh.
- For SDS-PAGE samples use 50–100 mM final.
FAQ
DTT vs β-mercaptoethanol?
DTT is nearly odourless and stronger per mole; β-ME is cheaper but volatile and toxic, so it needs a fume hood.
This is a widely used standard composition. Amounts depend on the hydrate form and purity of your reagents — check the formula weight (FW) on the bottle and follow your institution's safety rules and the manufacturers' instructions.