TAE is a commonly used buffer for making and running DNA agarose gels. It offers a few advantages and disadvantages compared to TBE buffer:
- TAE buffer provides optimal resolution of fragments >4 kb in length, while TBE provides better resolution for 0.1 to 3 kb fragments.
- TAE is significantly cheaper to make
- TAE stocks can be 50X concentrated and therefore take up less space than 10X concentrated TBE stock
- TBE offers a higher resolution and has a higher buffering capacity at greater temperatures induced by relatively higher voltages
- TBE can negatively influence the yield of DNA after recovery from a gel when using glass-based protocols. Yield does not seem to be influenced when using silica-based methods.
- The bromide ion in TBE is a powerful inhibitor of enzyme activity. This can prevent degradation of nucleic acid, but can also interfere with subsequent experiments like cloning DNA into a vector.
Ingredients for one litre 50X stock
Add dH2O up to one litre.
To make 1x TAE from 50X TAE stock, dilute 20ml of stock into 980 ml of deionised water.