solventtidetergent

Solvent-detergent inactivation is a method used to inactivate lipid-enveloped viruses and some other pathogens. This process involves the use of a combination of solvents and detergents. The solvent component, typically an organic solvent like tri-n-butyl phosphate (TNBP), disrupts the lipid envelope of the virus. The detergent, such as Triton X-100 or Polysorbate 80, then further solubilizes the disrupted envelope, rendering the virus non-infectious. This technique is widely employed in the processing of blood products, such as plasma derivatives, to ensure their safety by eliminating viral contaminants. The effectiveness of solvent-detergent treatment relies on the specific chemical properties of the solvents and detergents used, as well as the susceptibility of the target pathogens. While highly effective against lipid-enveloped viruses like HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus, this method is generally not effective against non-enveloped viruses. The process is carefully controlled to minimize damage to the therapeutic proteins being purified.