Buffered saline solutions are balanced salt solutions formulated to maintain an osmotic balance similar to the natural condition of mammalian systems. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) is widely used because its buffering capacity is effective at in vivo neutral pH. Other principal functions of PBS include: (1) dissolving or diluting materials for use in cell culture, (2) supplementing with inorganic salts essential for basic cell metabolism, (3) maintaining osmotic balance, (4) buffering pH, and (5) eliminating culture components such as serum or trypsin. Storage/Stability PBS should be stored at 2-30°C. After opening, store at 2-8°C. Deterioration of PBS may be recognized by (1) precipitate or particulate matter throughout the solution, (2) cloudy appearance, (3) color change, and/or (4) pH change. The nature of supplements added may affect storage conditions and shelf life of PBS. Expiration date located on product label. Precautions For research use only.
