What is chelex?

Chelex resin is a type of ion exchange resin commonly used in molecular biology and biochemistry to remove metal ions from solutions. It is composed of styrene-divinylbenzene copolymers that are cross-linked with divinylbenzene.

Chelex resin works by chelating metal ions, meaning it binds to them and prevents them from interacting with other molecules in the solution. This can be useful for a variety of applications, such as removing metal ions that could interfere with enzymatic reactions, nucleic acid purification, and metal analysis.

One of the main advantages of Chelex resin is its high selectivity for metal ions, as well as its reversible binding properties. It is easy to use and can be added directly to a solution to remove metal ions quickly and efficiently.

Overall, Chelex resin is a versatile tool for researchers working with metal ions in solution, and its use can help improve the accuracy and reliability of biochemical and molecular biology experiments.