Modification reagent for His and Tyr residues in proteins. Robust probe for structural disruptions in dsDNA, reacting with fully or partially unstacked bases.1
Diethyl pyrocarbonate may be used in the following studies:
- For the modification of histidyl residues in proteins.
- As a nuclease inhibitor, for the extraction of undegraded nucleic acids from etiolated and green plant tissues.
- For the modification of linear and supercoiled plasmid DNAs.
- As a chemical probe to investigate the secondary structure in negatively supercoiled DNA.
- For cabethoxylation of histidine residues of actin.
Gentle esterifying agent. Preservative for wines, soft drinks, fruit juices.
ChEBI: The diethyl ester of dicarbonic acid.
Diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEP) is a bactericidal agent and decomposes in water to CO2 and ethanol. DEP inhibits enzymes such as DNase and RNase without affecting nucleic acids. It is useful for the preparation of mRNA from tissues.
Inactivates RNase in solution at about 0.1% (v/v), thus protecting RNA against degradation.
Poison by ingestion,
inhalation, and intraperitoneal routes.
Concentrated DEPC is irritating to eyes,
mucous membranes, and sh. When heated
to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and
fumes. See also ESTERS.
Dissolve the ester in Et2O, wash it with dilute HCl, H2O, dry over Na2SO4, filter, evaporate and distil the residue first in vacuo then at atmospheric pressure. It is soluble in alcohols, esters, ketones and hydrocarbon solvents. A 50% w/w solution is usually prepared for general use. Treat with great CAUTION as DEP irritates the eyes, mucous membranes and skin. [Boehm & Mehta Chem Ber 71 1797 1938, Thoma & Rinke Justus Liebigs Ann Chem 624 30 1959, Beilstein 3 IV 18.]
