How to Prepare Western Blot Transfer Buffer (Towbin)

Standard wet transfer buffer for Western blotting, pH ~8.3

Components

ChemicalConcentration
Tris base25 mM
Glycine192 mM
Methanol20% v/v

Preparation Strategy

Method: direct_dissolution

Reason: All component amounts are >1g, allowing direct dissolution approach

Preparation Table

ComponentConc.AmountUnit
Tris base25 mM1.51g
Glycine192 mM7.21g
Methanol20% v/v100mL

Procedure

  1. 1Step 1: Measure approximately 300 mL of distilled water in a 500 mL beaker
  2. 2Step 2: Add 1.51 g Tris base while stirring until completely dissolved
  3. 3Step 3: Add 7.21 g glycine while stirring until completely dissolved
  4. 4Step 4: Transfer solution to 500 mL volumetric flask
  5. 5Step 5: Add 100 mL HPLC-grade methanol and mix thoroughly
  6. 6Step 6: Fill to 500 mL mark with distilled water and mix well
  7. 7Step 7: Check pH (should be ~8.3, do not adjust as this will affect protein transfer)
  8. 8Step 8: Filter through 0.22 μm membrane if sterile solution needed

Sterilization

Filter sterilization through 0.22 μm membrane filter if sterile solution required. Do not autoclave as methanol will evaporate and concentrations will change.

Safety

Level 2 safety required. Wear nitrile gloves, safety glasses, and lab coat. Use fume hood when handling methanol. Methanol is flammable and toxic - avoid inhalation and skin contact. No ignition sources near methanol.

Storage

Store at 4°C in tightly sealed container. Can be stored at room temperature for short-term use. Methanol may evaporate over time, so replace solution if concentration accuracy is critical. Stable for 6 months when properly stored.

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