TAE buffer (Tris-Acetate-EDTA)

TAE buffer (Tris-Acetate-EDTA) is a solution used in molecular biology, particularly for running gel electrophoresis of DNA. It maintains a stable pH and conducts electric current, enabling DNA fragments to move through the gel. Tris acts as a buffering agent to keep pH consistent, acetate provides additional buffering and supports DNA stability, and EDTA chelates metal ions that could damage DNA or interfere with the process. Together, these components create an optimal environment for separating DNA based on size during electrophoresis.