TBE and TAE buffers are often used in procedures involving nucleic acids, the most common being electrophoresis. Tris-acid solutions are effective buffers for slightly basic conditions, which keep DNA deprotonated and soluble in water. EDTA is a chelator of divalent cations, particularly of magnesium (Mg2+). As these ions are necessary co-factors for many enzymes, including contaminant nucleases, the role of the EDTA is to protect the nucleic acids against enzymatic degradation.

※ TBE has a tendency to precipitate over time. If this occurs, redissolve in solution.

5X TBE stock solution (1 Liter) contains:
54 g of Tris base
27.5 g of boric acid
20 ml of 0.5 M EDTA (pH 8.0)
​Ready to use. Before use, add 4X of ddH₂O to dilute.  

 

Store at Room Temperature.