Chemistry
The Chemistry of Zwitterionic Buffers in Biological Systems
Quick fact
The first zwitterionic buffers, called 'Good's buffers', were introduced in 1966 and named after their creator, Norman Good. They were specifically designed to be biologically inert and effective in the physiological pH range of 6 to 8.
Why this is interesting
We all know that blood stays at a precise pH, but how do molecules in our cells buffer against acids and bases without disrupting the delicate chemistry of life? The answer lies in invisible molecules that carry both a positive and a negative charge at the same time.