Buffer, as a type of substance that can maintain the pH stability of the reaction system, is usually composed of weak acids, weak bases, and their salts or zwitterionic substances. In biological systems, they play crucial roles, such as CO ₂ in photosynthesis and bicarbonate in human plasma. In the field of biochemical testing, Tris buffer and phosphate buffer (PBS) are the two most commonly used, although they each have their own characteristics and application ranges.
Firstly, from the perspective of buffering range, Tris buffer typically has a pH range of 5.0 to 9.2, which varies depending on the acidity of Tris. In biochemical research, Tris buffer has been paid more and more attention because of its wide application range, especially in SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and other experiments, its use frequency even exceeds that of phosphate buffer. Phosphate PBS buffer has a wider buffering range, covering the pH range of 1 to 12. This is due to the dissociation characteristics of phosphate, which makes the prepared buffer have a wider pH adaptability.
Secondly, from the perspective of application fields, Tris, as an amino buffering agent, has a sodium free characteristic that prevents it from introducing sodium and potassium ions into the system, thereby avoiding the impact on osmotic pressure. In addition, Tris has a relatively small impact on biochemical processes and does not form precipitates with calcium, enzymes, and heavy metal ions, making it suitable for DNA, RNA, and protein related experiments. However, the pH value of Tris is temperature sensitive and the solution is prone to absorbing CO ₂, so special attention should be paid when using it.
Although phosphate buffer has a slightly weaker buffering ability under alkaline conditions, it can dissociate cations and has a salt balance effect, with little impact on the protein structure and biological characteristics of living organisms. Therefore, phosphate PBS buffer is often used in cell experiments. However, it may also form precipitates with calcium, magnesium ions, and heavy metal ions, thereby inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes.
Overall, Tris buffer and phosphate buffer each have their unique advantages and applicability. With the deepening of biochemical research, the application of Tris buffer is becoming increasingly widespread, and there is a trend of gradually surpassing phosphate buffer. However, when choosing which buffer to use, it is still necessary to consider the specific experimental requirements and conditions comprehensively.Desheng specializes in the production of biological buffering agents, with a large quantity in stock. Welcome to consult and purchase!
