Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) is a buffer solution used in biological research. It is a water-based salt solution containing sodium phosphate, sodium chloride and, in some formulations, it contains potassium chloride and potassium phosphate. The osmolality and ion concentrations of the solutions match those of the human body (isotonic) and are non-toxic to most cells.
This balanced salt solution is issued to meet the requirements of those tissue culture workers who use the Dulbecco Solution with and without calcium and magnesium.
Formulated to ISO 6887-1, Maximum Recovery Diluent (MRD) is a diluent designed to maintain organisms by protecting the cells from unnecessary physiological shock that may occur using other aqueous solutions. MRD is used extensively in food and environmental testing. The low level of peptone provides a protective effect but does not allow for multiplication during the short residence time in the diluent, 45 minutes. The sodium chloride prevents osmotic shock as the sample is initially diluted.
