Zwitterionic Detergents

Zwitterionic detergents, characterized by having both positively and negatively charged groups within the same molecule, offer a unique set of properties. Chaps, a representative of this category, is known for its compatibility with isoelectric focusing and two-dimensional electrophoresis. The presence of both charged groups allows these detergents to interact with molecules of varying charges, making them versatile in maintaining protein stability during analytical procedures. Zwitterionic detergents strike a balance between the denaturing capabilities of anionic detergents and the mildness of non-ionic detergents.