TE buffer (pH 8.0) recipe
A buffer for dissolving and storing DNA and primers: Tris holds the pH and EDTA inhibits DNases. 10 mM Tris-HCl, 1 mM EDTA.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 M Tris-HCl (pH 8.0) | 1 mL | 10 mM |
| 0.5 M EDTA (pH 8.0) | 200 µL | 1 mM |
| Water (distilled) | to final volume |
Steps
- Add both stocks to water and bring to the final volume.
- Autoclave or filter and store at room temperature.
Good to know
- EDTA chelates the Mg²⁺ needed for PCR; low-TE (0.1 mM EDTA) or water is sometimes used for qPCR primer dilutions.
FAQ
Can I dissolve DNA in water?
Short-term, yes, but water is slightly acidic and DNA can degrade over long storage — TE is better for the long term.
This is a widely used standard composition. Amounts depend on the hydrate form and purity of your reagents — check the formula weight (FW) on the bottle and follow your institution's safety rules and the manufacturers' instructions.