Ethidium bromide volatile in hot agarose solution?

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SUMMARY

Ethidium bromide (EtBr) is a compound used in molecular biology for DNA visualization, but concerns about its volatility in hot agarose solutions have been raised. Users report discomfort when remelting agarose gels containing EtBr, suggesting potential health hazards due to vapor exposure. The discussion highlights the need for awareness regarding the boiling point and vapor pressure of EtBr. An alternative reagent, Megafluor from EuroClone, is mentioned as a less toxic option for DNA labeling that does not penetrate cellular membranes and minimizes environmental impact.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ethidium bromide (EtBr) properties and applications in molecular biology.
  • Knowledge of agarose gel preparation and electrophoresis techniques.
  • Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols regarding chemical handling.
  • Basic concepts of vapor pressure and boiling points of chemical compounds.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the boiling point and vapor pressure of ethidium bromide.
  • Explore the safety guidelines for handling hazardous chemicals in the lab.
  • Investigate the properties and applications of Megafluor as an alternative to EtBr.
  • Learn about the standard electrophoretic techniques and transilluminators used in DNA visualization.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for molecular biologists, laboratory technicians, and researchers concerned with the safety and efficacy of DNA visualization techniques.

Monique
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Is ethidium bromide volatile in hot agarose solution? Some people add ethidium bromide to melted agarose solution, or reuse agarose containing ethidium bromide by melting it. If EtBr is heat-volatile, then it may pose danger to these persons. I always feel uncomfortable when remelting gels and avoid breathing in the air.. is there a real health hazard here?
 
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Interesting, someone is on the same wavelength as me.. posted one day in advance..

Does anyone know the boiling point and vapour pressure of EtBR?
 
Originally posted by iansmith
check this link out

http://micro.nwfsc.noaa.gov/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1524
Tnanks so much for bringing that Forum to my attention Ian. That might really help me over the next couple of years as I start getting into the really technical side of Molecular Biology =)
 
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You're welcome

I have check this forum for a while but never used any of the information given. The guy that works with me has a good background in biotechnology and molecular biology but the forum migth be usefull later.
 
There is another reagent for DNA labelling (I have never used it), its name is megafluor (EuroClone) and the toxicity is less than the EtBr, is not able to pass through cellular membranes and does not produce environmental pollution. It uses the standard electrophoretic techniques and transilluminators.
An alternative!
 

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