Spermidine is suitable for use in molecular biology buffers and for precipitation of DNA >100 bp in length. It was used to deliver DNA in plants and mammalian cells by particle bombardment technique.
Spermidine has been used in the preparation of gold beads and as a component in nuclei isolation buffer (NIB).
Biochem/physiol Actions
Inhibits neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Binds and precipitates DNA; may be used for purification of DNA binding proteins. Stimulates T4 polynucleotide kinase activity.
Spermidine helps to maintain the proper activity of gene expression. This polyamine plays a key role in intermediate metabolism. It also serves as an inhibitor of the acetyl transferase activity of E1A-associated protein p300 (EP300). Spermidine participates in cell growth.
Caution
Solutions should be sterile-filtered, not autoclaved, if sterile solution is necessary. Spermidine deaminates with time; solutions should be stored frozen. Prepare new solutions frequently.
General description
Spermidine belongs to the natural polyamines, that are found in chloroplasts and in bacterial or eukaryotic cells.