How to prepare a solution of Guanidine Isothiocyanate?

Preparing a solution of guanidine isothiocyanate (GITC) is a common yet crucial procedure in many biochemical and molecular biology laboratories. As a reliable supplier of high - quality guanidine isothiocyanate, I am here to guide you through the process, ensuring accuracy and safety.

Understanding Guanidine Isothiocyanate

Guanidine isothiocyanate is a strong protein denaturant and chaotropic agent. It is widely used in RNA extraction protocols, as it can effectively disrupt cell membranes and inactivate RNases, which are enzymes that rapidly degrade RNA. Additionally, GITC is also used in protein purification and other molecular biology techniques.

Materials and Equipment Required

Before starting the preparation, gather the following materials and equipment:

• Guanidine Isothiocyanate: Ensure you obtain high - purity GITC from a trusted supplier. Our company offers Guanidine Thiocyanate for Molecular Biology, which meets the strictest quality standards for laboratory use.
• Distilled or Deionized Water: This is used as the solvent for dissolving GITC. The water should be free of contaminants and RNases if the solution is for RNA - related applications.
• Graduated Cylinders or Volumetric Flasks: These are used for measuring the volume of water accurately. Volumetric flasks are preferred for more precise measurements, especially when preparing solutions of specific molarities.
• Stirring Rod or Magnetic Stirrer: To facilitate the dissolution of GITC in water. A magnetic stirrer is more convenient as it can provide continuous and consistent stirring.
• Weighing Balance: Used to measure the appropriate amount of GITC powder. The balance should have sufficient precision for the amount of GITC you need to weigh.
• Safety Equipment: This includes gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. GITC can be harmful if it comes into contact with the skin, eyes, or is inhaled.

Step - by - Step Preparation of Guanidine Isothiocyanate Solution

Step 1: Calculate the Amount of GITC Needed

The first step is to determine the amount of GITC required to prepare the desired solution. The concentration of GITC solutions can vary depending on the application. For example, a common concentration for RNA extraction is 4 - 6 M.

The formula for calculating the amount of solute (GITC) needed is:
[m = C\times V\times M]
where (m) is the mass of GITC (in grams), (C) is the desired concentration (in moles per liter), (V) is the volume of the solution (in liters), and (M) is the molar mass of GITC ((M = 118.16\ g/mol)).

For instance, if you want to prepare 500 mL (0.5 L) of a 4 M GITC solution:
[m=4\ mol/L\times0.5\ L\times118.16\ g/mol = 236.32\ g]

Step 2: Weigh the GITC

Using a weighing balance, carefully weigh the calculated amount of GITC powder. Place a clean weighing boat or container on the balance and tare it to zero. Then, slowly add GITC powder until you reach the desired mass.

Step 3: Add Water and Dissolve GITC

Transfer the weighed GITC powder to a clean volumetric flask or beaker. Add approximately 80% of the final volume of distilled or deionized water. If using a magnetic stirrer, place a magnetic stir bar in the container and start stirring at a moderate speed.

GITC dissolution can be an exothermic process, so it is important to monitor the temperature. If the solution becomes too hot, stop stirring and allow it to cool down before continuing.

Step 4: Adjust the Volume

Once the GITC is completely dissolved, add more water to reach the final volume. Use a pipette or a graduated cylinder to add the remaining water drop - by - drop until the bottom of the meniscus reaches the calibration mark on the volumetric flask.

Step 5: Mix Thoroughly

After adjusting the volume, cap the volumetric flask and invert it several times to ensure uniform mixing of the solution.

Quality Control and Storage

• Quality Control: It is recommended to check the pH and concentration of the prepared GITC solution. The pH of a GITC solution is typically around 4 - 5. You can use a pH meter to measure the pH and adjust it if necessary. To verify the concentration, you can use methods such as titration or spectrophotometry.
• Storage: Store the GITC solution in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. If the solution is for long - term storage, it can be kept at 4°C to prevent microbial growth. However, make sure to allow the solution to reach room temperature before use.

Safety Considerations

• Handling: Always wear appropriate safety equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when handling GITC. Avoid inhaling the powder or solution vapors.
• Disposal: Dispose of GITC solutions and waste according to local regulations. Do not pour GITC solutions down the drain without proper treatment.

Other Related Products

In addition to guanidine isothiocyanate, our company also offers other related products such as Guanidine Hydrochloride BPG and Polyhexamethylene Guanidine. These products have their own unique applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, water treatment, and molecular biology.

Conclusion

Preparing a guanidine isothiocyanate solution is a straightforward process when following the proper steps and safety precautions. As a reliable supplier, we are committed to providing high - quality GITC and related products to meet your laboratory needs. If you have any questions or are interested in purchasing our products, please feel free to contact us for more information and to discuss your specific requirements. We look forward to serving you and helping you achieve successful results in your research and applications.

References

• Sambrook, J., & Russell, D. W. (2001). Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (3rd ed.). Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.
• Ausubel, F. M., Brent, R., Kingston, R. E., Moore, D. D., Seidman, J. G., Smith, J. A., & Struhl, K. (Eds.). (1995). Current Protocols in Molecular Biology. John Wiley & Sons.