TBE is a buffer solution that consists of a mixture of Tris base, boric acid, EDTA, and water.
In molecular biology, TBE and TAE are often used in proceedures involving DNA. Tris is an effective buffer for slightly basic solutions, which keeps DNA deprotonated and soluable in water. EDTA binds to divalent cations, particularly magnesium (Mg2+). These ions are necessary co-factors for many enzymes; Magnesium is a co-factor for many DNA-modifying enzymes.
