Citric Acid-Tween Solution is a specialized reagent used in various laboratory procedures, particularly in immunohistochemistry (IHC) and other staining techniques. This solution is often used for antigen retrieval, which helps unmask epitopes on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections, making them more accessible for antibody binding.
Uses of Citric Acid-Tween Solution:
- Antigen Retrieval: Enhances epitope exposure in tissue sections for immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.
- Buffering Agent: Maintains pH stability during staining procedures, ensuring consistent results.
- Washing Solution: Reduces background staining by minimizing nonspecific binding of antibodies.
- Tissue Preparation: Used in preparing tissue samples for staining, improving antibody binding efficiency.
- Deparaffinization Aid: Assists in the removal of paraffin from tissue sections during staining protocols.
- Stain Enhancement: Improves the intensity and clarity of specific stains in histological procedures.
- Protein Unmasking: Helps to reveal hidden protein sites on formalin-fixed tissues, facilitating better detection by antibodies.
Composition of Citric Acid-Tween Solution:
| Component | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Citric Acid | 12.91 g | Buffering agent to maintain acidic pH |
| di-Sodium hydrogen phosphate, hydrated (Na₂HPO₄·12H₂O) | 27.61 g | Buffering agent to maintain pH |
| Tween 80 | 50 ml | Surfactant to reduce surface tension |
| Merthiolate | 0.1 g | Preservative to prevent microbial growth |
| Distilled water | 1 litre | Solvent to dissolve all components |
Preparation of Citric Acid-Tween Solution:
- Weigh the Chemicals:
- Weigh 12.91 g of citric acid.
- Weigh 27.61 g of di-sodium hydrogen phosphate (Na₂HPO₄·12H₂O).
- Transfer both to a 1-liter volumetric flask.
- Dissolve in Water:
- Half-fill the flask with warm distilled water.
- Mix until the chemicals are completely dissolved.
- Add Tween 80:
- Add 50 ml of Tween 80 to the flask.
- Fill the flask up to the 1-liter mark with distilled water.
- Add Merthiolate:
- Transfer the solution to a leak-proof bottle.
- Add 0.1 g of merthiolate (preservative).
- Mix gently but thoroughly.
- Label and Store:
- Label the bottle with the preparation date and contents.
- Store at room temperature. The solution is stable for several months.
Precautions for Preparing Citric Acid-Tween Solution:
- Use PPE: Wear gloves, goggles, and a lab coat to protect against chemical exposure.
- Handle Chemicals Carefully: Avoid inhalation and direct contact with citric acid and merthiolate.
- Use Warm Water Cautiously: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to prevent splashing and scalding.
- Mix Gently: Avoid vigorous shaking to prevent foam formation, especially after adding Tween 80.
- Label Clearly: Properly label the solution with the contents and preparation date to avoid misuse.
- Store Properly: Keep the solution in a well-sealed, leak-proof bottle at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Follow your lab’s protocols for disposing of chemical waste.
Uses of Citric Acid-Tween Solution in Clinical Laboratories:
- Antigen Retrieval: Enhances epitope exposure on tissue sections for more effective immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.
- Buffering Agent: Maintains pH stability during various staining procedures, ensuring consistent results.
- Reducing Background Staining: Helps minimize nonspecific binding of antibodies, leading to clearer and more accurate staining.
- Tissue Preparation: Assists in the preparation of tissue samples for staining, improving antibody binding efficiency.
- Deparaffinization: Aids in removing paraffin from tissue sections, crucial for preparing slides in histology.
- Stain Enhancement: Increases the intensity and clarity of specific stains, improving diagnostic accuracy.
- Protein Unmasking: Facilitates the unmasking of hidden protein sites in formalin-fixed tissues, allowing better antibody detection.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
The content on LabTestsGuide.com is for informational and educational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. LabTestsGuide.com is not liable for any decisions made based on the information on this site.
