DEAE-dextran (MW 500000)

DEAE-Dextran (MW 500000) is a complex carbohydrate polymer consisting of glucose molecules linked by glycosidic bonds and modified with diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) groups. DEAE-Dextran is a cationic molecule that can be used as a transfection reagent to deliver nucleic acids such as DNA or RNA into cells. Its positive charge interacts with negatively charged cell membranes, facilitating the uptake of nucleic acids. DEAE-Dextran can also be used as an ion-exchange chromatography resin, allowing the separation and purification of biomolecules based on their charge.