Dithiothreitol (DTT) is a small molecule commonly used in biochemistry and molecular biology. It acts as a reducing agent, which means it helps break disulfide bonds in proteins, thereby maintaining them in a reduced state. This property is particularly useful in protein studies, as it helps preserve the structure and function of proteins during experiments. DTT is often used in various laboratory applications, including protein purification, gel electrophoresis, and enzyme assays. It is typically added to buffers and solutions to prevent oxidation, ensuring that proteins remain functional and stable. However, DTT can be toxic in high concentrations, so careful handling is essential.