EdvoTech Tips: How many times can I use electrophoresis buffer?

[@Biotechnologyfriend2649]

A really nice way to demonstrate the need for changing buffer and how long we can use it. Thanks a lot

[@EdvotekInc]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@embryophytelove]

Never knew this. Thanks!

[@EdvotekInc]

Glad you found new and interesting info! We had fun with this experiment.

[@embryophytelove]

So does the same re-use apply to gels? I typically re-melt and re-use them several times.

[@EdvotekInc]

We haven't tested this. I think it would depend on the application of the electrophoresis experiment. For gels where bands are used for downstream cloning or sequencing, I would never reuse agarose for fear of the DNA contamination. For simple band analysis, you could consider reusing the agarose but refresh with a little concentrated buffer so as to not affect the concentration.

[@embryophytelove]

@@EdvotekInc Thanks! Using just for simple band analysis, no downstream work.

[@峰-t1b]

Why does the final pH change? Theoretically, the electrolysis of water will generate same amount of H+ and OH-

[@峰-t1b]

In addition, what's the electric field strength used here? V/cm? I believe it will affect the pH change rate.

[@EdvotekInc]

Hi! Most of the liberated hydrogen atoms are likely forming into the gas bubbles we see at the terminal instead of remaining dissolved in solution. The accumulation of hydroxide ions will eventually exceed the buffering capacity and that is why we see the increase in pH

[@EdvotekInc]

@@峰-t1b It's 150V, and the distance from terminal is probably about 20 cm.