Merck, H0887-100ML, HEPES solution

HEPES Buffer Solution, a sterile-filtered 1M solution of 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-ethane-sulfonic acid, serves as a vital biological buffer in cell biology, biochemical, and biological research. This zwitterionic buffer enjoys widespread adoption due to its effective pH range of 6.8 to 8.2, making it suitable for a diverse array of research applications. HEPES excels as a buffering agent in cell culture media, offering several advantages over alternatives like Tris and phosphate. Notably, HEPES exhibits lower cell toxicity, ensuring optimal cell health and viability during experiments. Furthermore, it surpasses bicarbonate buffers (NaHCO3) in its ability to maintain physiological pH despite fluctuations in carbon dioxide concentration arising from cellular respiration, a key factor in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Beyond its exceptional performance in cell culture, HEPES may also find application in various biological and biochemical studies. It may also be valuable in techniques like immunoprecipitation, cell lysis, and live cell imaging, providing a stable and controlled environment for experimental procedures. The combination of its versatility, exceptional pH buffering capacity, and minimal interaction with other molecules positions HEPES as an indispensable tool across diverse research fields.