PEG 1000 (CAS 25322-68-3)

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1000, identifiable by its CAS number 25322-68-3, is a polymer of ethylene oxide and water with an average molecular weight of around 1000 daltons. This compound is part of a larger family of polyethylene glycols, which are distinguished by their varying molecular weights and corresponding physical properties. PEG 1000 is particularly noted for its solubility in water and organic solvents, making it extremely useful in a broad range of research applications. It functions primarily as a solubilizing agent, lubricant, and viscosity modifier in various experimental setups. In biochemical and pharmaceutical research, PEG 1000 is widely utilized to enhance the solubility of hydrophobic molecules, thereby increasing their bioavailability in aqueous solutions. This characteristic is crucial in the formulation of compounds that are otherwise challenging to dissolve. Furthermore, PEG 1000 is employed in the preparation of drug delivery systems where it acts to stabilize and protect therapeutic agents during both storage and administration. In the field of protein research, PEG 1000 is used in PEGylation, a process that involves the covalent attachment of PEG chains to proteins or peptides to mask them from the host′s immune system, thus extending their circulatory time. This application is pivotal in enhancing the efficacy and safety of protein-based therapeutics by reducing their immunogenicity and increasing their stability. The versatility and non-toxic nature of PEG 1000 make it an indispensable tool in scientific studies, especially those focused on improving drug delivery technologies and protein therapies.