Does PBS buffer have any effect on cell adhesion?
Posted April 17, 2020
Answer
Formulations of PBS that include calcium and magnesium increase cell adhesion. This is because cadherins and integrins, key molecules that are involved in cell adhesion, require calcium and magnesium to function. Conversely, PBS lacking calcium and magnesium decreases cell adhesion and is useful for cell dissociation and suspension.
Additional resources
PBS (Phosphate Buffered Saline) (1X, pH 7.4) Preparation and Recipe