Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane: Applications in Skincare Products and Side Effects

Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, commonly known as Trometamol, Tris base, or Trizma base, plays a vital role as a biological buffer in a variety of research applications. Due to its optimal pKa of 8.1, it is widely used in the formulation of buffers such as triethyl acetate-EDTA (TAE) and triethyl borate-EEDTA (TBE), making it well suited to maintain pH within the physiological range (pH 7-9) applicable to most organisms. However, caution may be required when studying certain proteins, as Tris has the potential to interfere with the activity of certain enzymes. Tris base can be used as a buffer on its own or as a component in mixed buffer formulations, including Tris-EDTA (TE) buffer, TAE buffer, and TBE buffer.

Figure 1. Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane

Product Applications

1. Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane can be used as a buffer solution for lactate dehydrogenase assays, in situ hybridization procedures, and protein extraction from cells.

2. As a buffer in flow cell sample preparation for Raman spectroscopy.

3. As a wash buffer in protein blotting.

4. As a buffer component for tissue decellularization.

5. As a buffer in aquaculture farms.

The scientific principle of buffers

The key to why tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane can be an excellent buffer is that the amino group in its molecule can accept protons (H+) to form positively charged ions, while the hydroxyl group can release protons to become negatively charged ions. This ability to accept and release protons enables TRIS to maintain the relative stability of the solution pH value by quickly adjusting its own ionization state when the external pH changes. This dynamic equilibrium mechanism provides a stable environment for biochemical reactions and protects the activity and structural integrity of biological molecules.

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