What is the difference between DPBS and PBS?

DPBS is a modified version of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), often containing calcium and magnesium ions, making it more suitable for applications requiring cell adhesion or enzymatic activity.

Why is DPBS used in cell culture?

DPBS helps maintain pH and osmotic balance during washing, transport, or dilution steps without introducing proteins or enzymes that could affect sensitive biological systems.

Can DPBS be used with enzymes like trypsin?

Yes, but for trypsinization, it's important to use DPBS without calcium and magnesium, as these ions can inhibit trypsin activity. Always match the DPBS formulation to your specific protocol.

Dulbecco’s PBS

Dulbecco’s Phosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS) is a balanced salt solution designed to support cell culture and molecular biology workflows by maintaining physiological pH and osmotic balance. It contains a blend of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium phosphate, and potassium phosphate, with optional calcium and magnesium ions to enhance cell adhesion and enzymatic activity.

DPBS is commonly used for:

Washing and rinsing cells without disrupting cell membranes

Diluting reagents in sensitive experiments

Transporting tissues or cells under stable conditions

Protein- and enzyme-free, making it ideal for sensitive cell-based applications
Maintains ionic balance to preserve cellular integrity
Supports enzymatic reactions and cell viability with optional ion supplementation

Whether you're performing cell detachment, dilution, or transport, DPBS is a go-to solution that ensures experimental consistency and biological compatibility.