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| Name | HEPES for Molecular Biology |
| Vendor | Various suppliers |
| Format | Powder or solution |
| Purity | Ultra-pure |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| PH Range | 7.2 - 7.6 |
| Storage Conditions | Store at room temperature |
| Usage | Buffering agent in cell culture media |
| Applications | Maintains pH in biological and chemical reactions |
| Stability | Stable over a wide range of temperatures |
| Compatibility | Compatible with a variety of cell culture systems |
| Packaging | Available in different sizes |
| Shelf Life | Long shelf life when stored properly |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or clear liquid |
| Cas Number | 7365-45-9 |
FAQ
What is HEPES and how is it used in molecular biology applications?
HEPES, or 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid, is a buffering agent commonly used in molecular biology research. It helps to maintain a stable pH in cell culture media, protein solutions, and other biological buffers. HEPES is particularly useful in cell culture experiments where maintaining a stable pH is crucial for cell viability and experimental outcomes.
How does HEPES differ from other buffering agents commonly used in molecular biology?
HEPES has a unique chemical structure that allows it to maintain a stable pH in a variety of biological solutions. Unlike traditional buffers like phosphate and bicarbonate, HEPES is not affected by changes in temperature or concentration, making it ideal for use in sensitive molecular biology experiments.
What concentrations of HEPES are typically used in molecular biology applications?
The concentration of HEPES used in molecular biology applications can vary depending on the specific experiment and the pH requirements of the solution. Typically, HEPES is used at concentrations ranging from 5mM to 25mM in cell culture media and other biological buffers.
Can HEPES be used in combination with other buffering agents?
Yes, HEPES can be used in combination with other buffering agents to create custom buffer solutions with specific pH requirements. Combining HEPES with other buffering agents like MES or Tris can help researchers fine-tune the pH of their solutions for optimal experimental results.
Are there any considerations or precautions to keep in mind when using HEPES in molecular biology experiments?
While HEPES is a versatile buffering agent, researchers should be aware of its limited solubility in water at higher concentrations. It is important to dissolve HEPES completely before adding it to experimental solutions to avoid precipitation. Additionally, HEPES should be stored properly in a cool, dry place to maintain its stability and effectiveness in molecular biology applications.
HEPES, or 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid, is a buffering agent commonly used in molecular biology research. It helps to maintain a stable pH in cell culture media, protein solutions, and other biological buffers. HEPES is particularly useful in cell culture experiments where maintaining a stable pH is crucial for cell viability and experimental outcomes.
How does HEPES differ from other buffering agents commonly used in molecular biology?
HEPES has a unique chemical structure that allows it to maintain a stable pH in a variety of biological solutions. Unlike traditional buffers like phosphate and bicarbonate, HEPES is not affected by changes in temperature or concentration, making it ideal for use in sensitive molecular biology experiments.
What concentrations of HEPES are typically used in molecular biology applications?
The concentration of HEPES used in molecular biology applications can vary depending on the specific experiment and the pH requirements of the solution. Typically, HEPES is used at concentrations ranging from 5mM to 25mM in cell culture media and other biological buffers.
Can HEPES be used in combination with other buffering agents?
Yes, HEPES can be used in combination with other buffering agents to create custom buffer solutions with specific pH requirements. Combining HEPES with other buffering agents like MES or Tris can help researchers fine-tune the pH of their solutions for optimal experimental results.
Are there any considerations or precautions to keep in mind when using HEPES in molecular biology experiments?
While HEPES is a versatile buffering agent, researchers should be aware of its limited solubility in water at higher concentrations. It is important to dissolve HEPES completely before adding it to experimental solutions to avoid precipitation. Additionally, HEPES should be stored properly in a cool, dry place to maintain its stability and effectiveness in molecular biology applications.
