Preparing an extraction buffer with PMSF and 2-mercaptoethanol

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on preparing an extraction buffer using PMSF and 2-mercaptoethanol in a 100 mL solution of 10 mM Tris-HCl and 1 mM EDTA at pH 7.4. To achieve final concentrations of 1 mM for both PMSF and 2-mercaptoethanol, users must calculate the required volumes from their stock solutions: 0.10 M PMSF in absolute ethanol and 14.3 M 2-mercaptoethanol. Two approaches are suggested: one assumes the main solution's volume remains unchanged, while the other accounts for the added volumes of PMSF and 2-mercaptoethanol. The discussion emphasizes that minor errors in volume calculations are unlikely to impact experimental outcomes significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of molarity and dilution calculations
  • Familiarity with PMSF (Phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride) and 2-mercaptoethanol
  • Knowledge of buffer preparation techniques
  • Basic laboratory skills for handling chemical solutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn about preparing buffers using Tris-HCl and EDTA
  • Study the effects of PMSF and 2-mercaptoethanol on protein stability
  • Explore advanced dilution techniques for accurate concentration adjustments
  • Investigate the role of pH in biochemical reactions and buffer systems
USEFUL FOR

Biochemists, laboratory technicians, and students involved in protein extraction and purification processes will benefit from this discussion.

samzorz
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Homework Statement



We have a 100 mL of 10 mM Tris-HCl, 1 mM EDTA, pH = 7.4

We're supposed to add PMSF to a final concentration of 1 mM and 2-mercaptoethanol to a final concentration of 1 mM. The stock solution of PMSF is .10 M PMSF in absolute ethanol. The 2-mercaptoethanol is also in the hood, it is 14.3 M.

We're trying to find the volume of .10 M PMSF needed and the volume of 2-mercaptoethanol needed

Homework Equations



M1V1=M2V2?

The Attempt at a Solution



Not sure how we can use the equation if we have 2 concentrations
 
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Two ways of approaching the problem.

1. Calculate both volumes to be added assuming volume of the "main" solution doesn't change. Especially if you start with 2-mercaptoethanol that will be very close to correct.

2. Add first solution (say - PMSF) and calculate how much 2-mercaptoethanol to add assuming your volume is now sum of volumes of the "main" solution and PMSF solution.
 
You will do a 100X dilution of the PMSF, so the change of volume due that too is insignificant.

You may need to or find it practically convenient to dilute the mercaptoethanol in two stages.

More refined calculations are IMO pointless here - I suspect for what you are going to do even a 100% error would probably make no difference and you will have a teacher/lab supervisor chomping for you to get on with it! :biggrin:
 
Last edited:

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