Hello Colleagues,
I have vials of a phospholipid formulation that I will use to prepare lipososomes. Once opened, I will not be using each vial immediately. Most researchers report using something like ethanol to prepare a stock solution, but then for storage they gas the vial with Argon and store at -20oC. If this is absolutely necessary I would probably have to purchase an argon tank just for this purpose.
I was wondering:
1) What is the purpose of the argon gassing (prevent oxidation?)
2) Is there an alternative to argon gassing for adequate storage of these lipids?
Any other advice highly appreciated.
Sincerely, Sylvia Bedford
Dear Sylvia Bedford-Guaus,
As you mentioned lipid may undergo oxidation when exposed to air (O2) therefore, it is necessary to remove the air and to replace it with an inert gas. Generally, argon or nitrogen are used for such purposes.
However, the suggestion of Michael to use solid CO2seems to be a good alternative.
Other alternative, is to store the lipid under vacuum if possible, thus avoiding any contact with oxygen or air.
Hoping this will be helpful,
Rafik
I have been away from the office for medical reasons, so sorry I missed your answers. Thank you for your helpful suggestions. Best regards, Sylvia Bedford
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