Azide, 2% solution (CAS 26628-22-8)

A 2% Azide solution, often referred to in scientific contexts simply as an azide buffer or sodium azide solution, is commonly used in biochemical research for its properties as a preservative and antimicrobial agent. Azides inhibit microbial growth by targeting the respiratory electron transport chain, specifically by inhibiting the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase. This enzyme is crucial for cellular respiration in many bacteria and eukaryotic cells, and its inhibition effectively stops ATP production, leading to cell death or stasis. In laboratory settings, a 2% Azide solution is often used to prevent contamination and prolong the shelf life of various biological and chemical reagents. For instance, it is a standard additive in antibody storage solutions and other biological buffers where contamination could compromise the integrity of the reagents or interfere with experimental results. Moreover, azides are employed in research beyond their role as preservatives. In the field of chemical biology, azide groups are used in bioconjugation strategies. The azide moiety can engage in click chemistry reactions, notably with alkynes, under mild and biocompatible conditions to form stable triazole rings. This reactivity is utilized in labeling and tracking molecules in cells and tissues, providing valuable insights in molecular biology, proteomics, and cellular imaging studies.