Phosphate is a little more expensive than Tris. For protein purification works where lots of buffer reagents (large volume) are needed, the cost of using Tris makes a big difference in the long run. Secondly, phosphate tends to form complex (insoluble precipitates or chelates) with metal ions, where Tris doesn't. Thirdly, phosphate is quite a strong buffer for around pH 7, and the pH is maintained at the similar value when the temperature is changed between room temp and 4 degree C. In contrast, the pH buffer capacity for Tris changes, and so is the maintenance of pH, which also changes with temperature changes.
Hope this helps.
Leo
Tris borate buffer or Tris acetate buffer which is used for the agarose gel electrophoresis for checking the DNA. and PBS is phoshate Buffer saline has many uses because it is isotonic and non-toxic to cells. These uses include substance dilution and cell container rinsing. PBS with EDTA is also used to disengage attached and clumped cells. Divalent metals such as zinc, however, cannot be added as this will result in precipitation. For these types of applications, Good's buffers are recommended.
Tris buffer is used as running buffer in agarose gel electrophoresis.
Phosphate buffer saline is used in isolating cells from tissue to maintain pH and keep cells alive.
Phosphate is a little more expensive than Tris. For protein purification works where lots of buffer reagents (large volume) are needed, the cost of using Tris makes a big difference in the long run. Secondly, phosphate tends to form complex (insoluble precipitates or chelates) with metal ions, where Tris doesn't. Thirdly, phosphate is quite a strong buffer for around pH 7, and the pH is maintained at the similar value when the temperature is changed between room temp and 4 degree C. In contrast, the pH buffer capacity for Tris changes, and so is the maintenance of pH, which also changes with temperature changes.
Hope this helps.
Leo
It is really helpful. But I am wondering whether Tris buffer is Okay with cells?
There is a wonderful answer to your question at the following link: http://www.protocol-online.org/biology-forums/posts/23999.html
However, short answer Tris seems to be able to penetrate the cells and cause adverse effects (see Article Adverse effects of Tris hydrochloride, a commonly used buffe...
). So i would not recommend using Tris for your cell culture.- Badges
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