Dimethyl sulphoxide

History and Use

Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) has a long history of use as a polar solvent and active pharmaceutical ingredient. It is widely used for its excellent solvent properties.

Chemical Structure and Decomposition

DMSO can decompose autocatalytically, with the chemical structure and function of the autocatalyst still under debate.
Thermal decomposition of DMSO produces several organic and inorganic acids, with DMSO acting as both an oxidizer and a reactant in their formation.
The presence of acids generated in situ serves as autocatalysts for the thermal decomposition of DMSO.

Environmental Friendliness and Safety

DMSO is considered more environmentally friendly and harmless to the human body compared to N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF). It is classified as class 3 (nontoxic) by regulatory authorities like the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH).

Applications

DMSO is widely used as a nonaqueous solvent, particularly in the life sciences, where it serves as a vehicle for hydrophobic compounds and as a cryoprotectant for cell storage. Its high complexation ability and solubility make it suitable for various applications, including in perovskite solutions.

Toxicity and Effects on Cells

Despite its widespread use, DMSO is somewhat toxic and can affect cell behaviors in various ways.
Mechanistically, DMSO binds to proteins in the cytoplasm or nucleus, disrupting their functions and potentially leading to apoptosis.
While indispensable, DMSO is not without its drawbacks and should be used with caution in biological applications.

General Description

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a highly polar and aprotic organic compound that is a colorless and odorless liquid. It is commonly used as a powerful solvent and has a wide range of applications in industrial, pharmaceutical and laboratory settings. DMSO is known for its ability to easily penetrate biological membranes and can be used as a vehicle for drug delivery. It is also used in the preservation of stem cells and tissues, as well as in cryopreservation due to its ability to prevent ice crystal formation. Additionally, DMSO has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a popular choice for topical pain relief and anti-inflammatory treatments. However, it is important to handle DMSO with caution as it can easily absorb through the skin and can carry other substances into the body.