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| Name | EGTA for Molecular Biology |
| Brand | Thermo Fisher Scientific |
| Type | Buffer Solution |
| Size | 100 grams |
| Concentration | 0.5 M |
| Purity | ≥99% |
| Storage Conditions | Store at room temperature |
| Application | Chelator for calcium ions |
| Form | Powder |
| Color | White |
| PH Range | 6.8 - 7.2 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Sterility | Non-sterile |
| Shelf Life | 2 years |
| Product Use | Used in molecular biology experiments to sequester divalent ions |
| Shipping Conditions | Shipped at ambient temperature |
FAQ
What is EGTA and how is it used in molecular biology?
EGTA, or ethylene glycol-bis(2-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, is a chelating agent commonly used in molecular biology to sequester divalent cations such as calcium. It is used to prevent enzymatic degradation of nucleic acids and proteins, as well as to inhibit metalloproteases in cell culture media.
How does EGTA function as a chelating agent in molecular biology experiments?
EGTA works by binding to divalent cations such as calcium with high affinity, forming stable complexes that prevent these ions from participating in biological reactions. By sequestering calcium, EGTA can inhibit enzymes that require calcium as a cofactor, such as nucleases and proteases, thereby preserving the integrity of nucleic acids and proteins in biological samples.
What are the advantages of using EGTA in molecular biology research?
One of the main advantages of using EGTA in molecular biology research is its ability to prevent degradation of nucleic acids and proteins by inhibiting metal-dependent enzymes. EGTA is also highly specific for divalent cations such as calcium, which allows researchers to selectively manipulate the concentrations of these ions in biological samples. In addition, EGTA is relatively stable and can be easily stored and used in a laboratory setting.
Are there any considerations or limitations when using EGTA in molecular biology experiments?
While EGTA is a widely used chelating agent in molecular biology research, there are some considerations to keep in mind. EGTA may chelate other divalent cations besides calcium, which could impact the function of certain enzymes or cellular processes. Additionally, the pH of the solution in which EGTA is used can affect its chelating activity, so it is important to optimize the pH for specific experimental conditions. Finally, the concentration of EGTA used in experiments should be carefully calibrated to achieve the desired effects without causing unwanted side effects.
In conclusion, EGTA is a valuable tool in molecular biology research for sequestering divalent cations and inhibiting metal-dependent enzymes. By understanding how EGTA functions as a chelating agent and considering its advantages, limitations, and experimental considerations, researchers can effectively incorporate this compound into their experimental protocols to preserve the integrity of nucleic acids and proteins.
EGTA, or ethylene glycol-bis(2-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, is a chelating agent commonly used in molecular biology to sequester divalent cations such as calcium. It is used to prevent enzymatic degradation of nucleic acids and proteins, as well as to inhibit metalloproteases in cell culture media.
How does EGTA function as a chelating agent in molecular biology experiments?
EGTA works by binding to divalent cations such as calcium with high affinity, forming stable complexes that prevent these ions from participating in biological reactions. By sequestering calcium, EGTA can inhibit enzymes that require calcium as a cofactor, such as nucleases and proteases, thereby preserving the integrity of nucleic acids and proteins in biological samples.
What are the advantages of using EGTA in molecular biology research?
One of the main advantages of using EGTA in molecular biology research is its ability to prevent degradation of nucleic acids and proteins by inhibiting metal-dependent enzymes. EGTA is also highly specific for divalent cations such as calcium, which allows researchers to selectively manipulate the concentrations of these ions in biological samples. In addition, EGTA is relatively stable and can be easily stored and used in a laboratory setting.
Are there any considerations or limitations when using EGTA in molecular biology experiments?
While EGTA is a widely used chelating agent in molecular biology research, there are some considerations to keep in mind. EGTA may chelate other divalent cations besides calcium, which could impact the function of certain enzymes or cellular processes. Additionally, the pH of the solution in which EGTA is used can affect its chelating activity, so it is important to optimize the pH for specific experimental conditions. Finally, the concentration of EGTA used in experiments should be carefully calibrated to achieve the desired effects without causing unwanted side effects.
In conclusion, EGTA is a valuable tool in molecular biology research for sequestering divalent cations and inhibiting metal-dependent enzymes. By understanding how EGTA functions as a chelating agent and considering its advantages, limitations, and experimental considerations, researchers can effectively incorporate this compound into their experimental protocols to preserve the integrity of nucleic acids and proteins.
