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| Name | HEPES for buffer solutions |
| Brand | Sigma-Aldrich |
| Quantity | 100 g |
| Purity | ≥ 99.5% |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Molecular Weight | 238.3 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 234-236°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Storage Conditions | Store at room temperature |
| CAS Number | 7365-45-9 |
| Application | Commonly used as a buffering agent in cell culture and biochemistry |
FAQ
What is HEPES and how is it used in buffer solutions?
HEPES, or N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid, is a zwitterionic organic compound commonly used as a buffering agent in biological research. It is particularly useful for maintaining a stable pH in cell culture media and biochemical reactions.
How does HEPES differ from other buffer solutions?
HEPES is unique in that it has a pKa value of 7.55, making it an effective buffer at physiological pH levels. Unlike traditional buffers like phosphate and Tris, HEPES is not affected by carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, making it ideal for cell culture applications.
Can HEPES be used in a wide range of applications?
Yes, HEPES is versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, including cell culture, protein purification, and enzyme assays. Its ability to maintain stable pH levels under a wide range of conditions makes it a popular choice for researchers across different fields.
Is HEPES considered to be a safe and reliable buffering agent?
HEPES is generally considered to be safe for use in biological research, as it is non-toxic to cells and does not interfere with enzyme activity. Its reliability as a buffering agent is well-established, making it a preferred choice for maintaining stable pH levels in experimental settings.
Are there any specific considerations to keep in mind when using HEPES in buffer solutions?
While HEPES is a highly effective buffering agent, it is important to note that its optimal pH range is between 6.8 and 8.2. Additionally, HEPES is sensitive to temperature changes, so it is important to store solutions properly and use them within the recommended temperature range for best results.
HEPES, or N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid, is a zwitterionic organic compound commonly used as a buffering agent in biological research. It is particularly useful for maintaining a stable pH in cell culture media and biochemical reactions.
How does HEPES differ from other buffer solutions?
HEPES is unique in that it has a pKa value of 7.55, making it an effective buffer at physiological pH levels. Unlike traditional buffers like phosphate and Tris, HEPES is not affected by carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, making it ideal for cell culture applications.
Can HEPES be used in a wide range of applications?
Yes, HEPES is versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, including cell culture, protein purification, and enzyme assays. Its ability to maintain stable pH levels under a wide range of conditions makes it a popular choice for researchers across different fields.
Is HEPES considered to be a safe and reliable buffering agent?
HEPES is generally considered to be safe for use in biological research, as it is non-toxic to cells and does not interfere with enzyme activity. Its reliability as a buffering agent is well-established, making it a preferred choice for maintaining stable pH levels in experimental settings.
Are there any specific considerations to keep in mind when using HEPES in buffer solutions?
While HEPES is a highly effective buffering agent, it is important to note that its optimal pH range is between 6.8 and 8.2. Additionally, HEPES is sensitive to temperature changes, so it is important to store solutions properly and use them within the recommended temperature range for best results.
