Urea
Urea (CAS: 57-13-6), with the linear formula NH₂CONH₂, has a molecular weight of 60.06 g/mol. This compound is widely recognised for its utility in denaturing proteins and acting as a mild solubilisation agent for insoluble or denatured proteins. It is particularly useful in refolding denatured proteins, such as inclusion bodies, into their active forms when combined with agents like guanidine hydrochloride and dithiothreitol (DTT).
- IUPAC
- Carbamide,Carbonyldiamide
- Synonyms
- CarbamideCarbonyldiamide
Protein Denaturation and Solubilisation
Urea serves as an effective agent for denaturing proteins and as a solubilisation agent for proteins that are insoluble or have undergone denaturation. Its properties make it valuable in biochemical research for protein studies.
Protein Refolding
It is employed in the refolding of denatured proteins into their native or active state, often in conjunction with guanidine hydrochloride and dithiothreitol (DTT). This application is crucial for studies involving inclusion bodies and protein recovery.
Chaotropic Agent in Biochemistry
As a chaotropic agent, urea disrupts the structure of water and protein, facilitating the unfolding and solubilisation of proteins. This property is leveraged in various biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
| Molecular weight | 60.06 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | NH2CONH2 |
| Assay | ≥99.0% |
| Density | 1.335 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble8 M at 20 °C, clear, colorless |
| pH | 8.0-10.0 (20 °C, 8 M in H2O) |
| Concentration | 40 % (w/v) in H2O |
| Melting point | 132-135 °C(lit.) |
| Loss on drying | ≤0.1% loss on drying, 20 °C (HV) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Contains / stabiliser | 0.1% benzoic acid as preservative |
| Impurities tested | DNases, none detectedRNases, none detectedinsoluble matter, passes filter testphosphatases, none detectedproteases, none detected≤0.1% biuret<0.005% formaldehyde (HCHO) |
| Application | Used for the denaturation of proteins and as a mild solubilization agent for insoluble or denatured proteins. Useful for renaturing proteins from samples already denatured with 6 M guanidine chloride such as inclusion bodies. May be used with guanidine hydrochloride and dithiothreitrol (DTT) in the refolding of denatured proteins into their native or active form. |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤5 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤10 mg/kg |
|---|---|
| Ignition residue | ≤0.01% (as SO4) |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Availability | available only in Japan |
|---|---|
| Isotopic Purity | 99.9 atom % 12C |
| Mass Shift | depleted |
| Uv Absorption | λ: 260 nm Amax: ≤0.03λ: 280 nm Amax: ≤0.02 |
| Sterility | non-sterile; sterile-filtered |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Urea used for?
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Urea is used for the denaturation of proteins and as a mild solubilisation agent for insoluble or denatured proteins. It is also useful for renaturing proteins from samples already denatured with 6 M guanidine chloride, such as inclusion bodies, and may be used with guanidine hydrochloride and dithiothreitol (DTT) in the refolding of denatured proteins into their native or active form.
What is the CAS number and formula for Urea?
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The CAS number for Urea is 57-13-6, and its linear formula is NH₂CONH₂.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Urea with an assay of ≥99.0%. This product is not represented as USP, BP, EP, pharmacopoeia, nutraceutical, or food grade.
What are the safety and handling considerations for Urea?
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While specific GHS hazards are not detailed here, standard laboratory safety precautions should be observed when handling Urea. Ensure adequate ventilation and appropriate personal protective equipment.
How is Urea packed and shipped?
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Urea is available only in Japan. Specific packing and shipping details for export can be provided upon request.
How can I request a quote or sample for Urea?
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To request a quote or sample for Urea, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team with your specific requirements.
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