Can other reducing agents other than DTT or BME be used to reduce proteins prior to electrophoresis? For example, what about TCEP (Tris Carboxy Ethyl Phosphene)?

Question

Can other reducing agents other than DTT or BME be used to reduce proteins prior to electrophoresis?  For example, what about TCEP (Tris Carboxy Ethyl Phosphene)?

Accepted Answer

TCEP, Tris Carboxy Ethyl Phosphene is an alternative sulfhydryl reducing agent for protein samples. It is an extremely potent and effective reducing agent for particularly ‘difficult' proteins. It is compatible with the Tris-Glycine gels and NuPAGE gels. It should be added to the sample buffer for these systems. 20 mM final (maximum) concentration is sufficient for samples. You may add alkylating agents, e.g. Iodine (50 mM Iodoacetic acid), to prevent re-forming of S-S bonds but it is not necessary. Do not heat because this will hydrolyze much of your sample. Instead let the sample sit for several minutes at RT and then load.

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Pierce™ Premium Grade TCEP-HCl, 1 g - FAQs

Can other reducing agents other than DTT or BME be used to reduce proteins prior to electrophoresis? For example, what about TCEP (Tris Carboxy Ethyl Phosphene)?