Citrate buffers, fundamentally based on citric acid and its salts like Sodium Citrate (CAS 68-04-2), are cornerstones in many scientific and industrial applications due to their excellent pH buffering capabilities. These buffers are effective in maintaining a stable pH environment across a range of acidic conditions, making them invaluable in diverse fields from biochemistry and molecular biology to industrial processes. At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we understand the importance of precise pH control and offer high-purity Sodium Citrate for reliable buffer preparation.

The buffering action of citrate stems from the stepwise dissociation of citric acid, a triprotic acid with three dissociable protons. Each dissociation step has a specific pKa value, allowing for effective buffering in different pH ranges. Sodium Citrate, as the salt of citric acid, provides the conjugate base needed to establish the buffer system. By mixing citric acid and Sodium Citrate in specific ratios, one can create buffers with a desired pH, typically within the range of pH 3.0 to 6.2. This versatility makes citrate buffers adaptable to many experimental requirements. When scientists search for 'citrate buffer pH 6.0' or 'citrate buffer pH 4.5', they are seeking this precise pH control.

One of the most significant applications of citrate buffers is in biological research, particularly in antigen retrieval protocols for immunohistochemistry (IHC). Formalin fixation, commonly used to preserve tissue morphology, can create protein cross-links that mask antigenic sites, hindering antibody binding. Citrate buffers, especially at elevated temperatures (around 95-100°C), effectively break these cross-links, exposing the epitopes and significantly improving the sensitivity and clarity of immunostaining. This application is critical for accurate diagnostics and research, making reliable 'Sodium Citrate Buffer' formulations essential. Protocols often cite using '10mM Sodium Citrate' or similar concentrations for this purpose.

In addition to IHC, citrate buffers are utilized in RNA isolation to prevent base hydrolysis, in cell culture media for pH stabilization, and in various enzymatic assays where maintaining a specific pH is crucial for enzyme activity. Their role as anticoagulants, as discussed in medical applications, is another testament to their chemical utility. For laboratories and industries that require consistent and accurate buffer solutions, sourcing high-quality Sodium Citrate from reputable 'Sodium Citrate suppliers' like NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is fundamental. Our commitment to quality ensures that your buffered solutions perform reliably, supporting your critical research and industrial processes. Whether for a specific 'citrate buffer recipe' or bulk procurement, we are your trusted partner.