Question: I can’t purchase the recommended TE buffer, pH 9.0 (Genemed, PN: 10-0046), are there any alternatives that could be used?
Answer: If you cannot purchase the recommended buffer, we would advise making it using Tris Base and EDTA. The recipe is in the Visium for FFPE H&E and Immunofluorescence Staining Demonstrated Protocols.
If you’d like to use an alternative commercially available TE buffer for decrosslinking, check that there are no additives or detergents. Additional reagents in the buffer besides Tris and EDTA are undesirable and may impact assay performance. The assay calls for TE buffer at pH 9. It is advised to adjust the buffer pH to 9. TE buffer can be used at lower pH (e.g. pH 8), but this may result in a decline in assay sensitivity depending on sample quality and type.
If using an alternative, please keep in mind it would be untested and we cannot guarantee assay performance.
Please note: We recommend making the buffer, aliquotting it, and then storing it at 4C. Before use, verify that the pH is correct. Tris buffers stored at room temperature will have fluctuations in pH after extended storage (see: this article).
Products: Visium for FFPE