Overview

Tris-EDTA Antigen Retrieval Buffer, pH 9.0, 10x - Tris-EDTA Antigen Retrieval Buffer is the standard alkaline HIER condition used when citrate pH 6.0 is insufficient or when antibody datasheets specify pH 9 retrieval.

The 10x format supports routine histology and imaging workflows while reducing storage volume and preparation variability.

We also have

S30A Buffer · S30B Buffer · GMExpression Buffer catalogue · YCFA Modified Medium · Modified Chopped Meat Broth

Use and Applications

  • IHC and IF antigen retrieval at alkaline pH
  • Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue section workflows
  • Antibody optimisation panels comparing pH 6 and pH 9 retrieval
  • IHC/IF Imaging Suite companion product

→Buffer Indicator Navigator

Use the GMExpression Buffer Indicator Navigator to find suitable pH ranges that match this buffer system, or start from a specific buffer and search for suitable working pH ranges for the intended experiment.

Specifications

ItemSpecification
Bottle500 mL 10x stock, makes 5 L working buffer
pHpH 9.0 after dilution
SurfactantTween 20 included
CompanionSodium Citrate Retrieval Buffer pH 6.0

Composition - draft formulation / release specification

ComponentAmount / concentrationFunction
Tris100 mM in 10xAlkaline buffer
EDTA-Na210 mM in 10xChelation-assisted retrieval
Tween 200.05% in 10xWetting and consistency
HCl / NaOHq.s. to pH 9.0pH adjustment
Ultrapure waterq.s. to final volumeSolvent

Instruction

1Dilute 1 volume of 10x stock with 9 volumes of ultrapure water.
2Heat slides in the diluted buffer according to tissue and antibody requirements.
3Cool slides gradually before blocking and staining.
4Compare with citrate pH 6.0 retrieval during antibody optimisation where needed.

Note

  • Alkaline retrieval can improve signal for some epitopes but may increase tissue stress. Optimise time, temperature, and pH together.

Cautions

Caution. Use appropriate heat and pressure safety controls for retrieval equipment.
Caution. EDTA chelates divalent cations and should not be carried into downstream metal-dependent assays.

Storage and Expiry · Safety

  • Store at room temperature or 2-8 deg C.
  • Unopened shelf life target: 24 months after validation.
  • Transport. Ships at ambient temperature; no cold chain required. Protect from freezing and from temperatures above 40 deg C.
  • Handling and PPE. Wear a laboratory coat, nitrile gloves, and safety glasses for routine handling. During heat-mediated antigen retrieval the buffer reaches near-boiling temperature; use heat-resistant vessels, insulated gloves, and a face shield to prevent scald/steam burns. The buffer is alkaline (pH 9). Consult the Safety Data Sheet before use.

References

  1. GMExpression Buffer Expansion Task 4 Supplement, T4-B12 and Section 6.11.
  2. Safety Data Sheet: SDS draft to be finalised before commercial release.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why offer both citrate and Tris-EDTA retrieval buffers?
They cover the two most common HIER pH regimes. Many antibodies perform best in one but not the other.
Q2. Can Tween 20 be omitted?
Yes. A detergent-free variant is feasible for protocols that specify no surfactant.