HBSS
Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) is a buffered, isotonic salt solution. HBSS is generally used to maintain physiological pH and osmolarity in cell culture applications. It also provides the cells with essential inorganic ions. HBSS is used for washing tissues and cells or in combination with additional reagents in the treatment of cells and tissues.
We offer HBSS in solid or dissolved form, with or without calcium/magnesium and with or without phenol red. Phenol red serves as a pH indicator. HBSS as well as Earle's Balanced Salt Solution (EBSS) contain glucose and sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3) as a buffer system. EBSS contains more NaHCO3 and is designed for use in an atmosphere with 5% CO2. HBSS, on the other hand, contains less NaHCO3 and can also be used without CO2.
Properties
- With 0.35 g/l NaHCO3
- Available with or without Mg2+/Ca2+
- Available with or without phenol red
Good to know
What is the difference between EBSS and HBSS?
EBSS (Earle’s Balanced Salt Solution) and HBSS (Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution) are similar in their basic function, but differ primarily in their buffering properties and, consequently, in their applications.
EBSS is generally designed for a CO₂-dependent atmosphere and often uses sodium bicarbonate as a buffer system. This makes it ideal for cell cultures in incubators with approximately 5% CO₂.
HBSS, on the other hand, is buffered independently of CO₂ due to its phosphate content and can therefore be used stably even outside a CO₂ incubator. It is particularly suitable for applications such as cell washing, transport, or short-term experiments under ambient air conditions. Our HBSS solution contains 0.35 g/L NaHCO₃ and is suitable for both conditions.