Stability of Retinoic Acid - (May/03/2007 )

Hi all.

I am starting to differenciate SH-SY5Y with retinoic acid. The aliquote our technic assistant gave to us was large (1 ml) compared with what I need each time (8 µl). I know RA is photosensitive and oxydizes quickly, but how well it bears freezing-thawing cycles? Our stock solution is 10 mM (3 mg/ml) in DMSO.

Thanks!

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I have used retinoic acid with many freeze thaw cycles and it still maintains activity. One main concern was the how long has it been sice the retinoic acid was made. We found out retinoic acid losing activity after 3-months. So we make up every 2 months.

I would make 200ul aliquots or even smaller ones from the large one you have.

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Here they keep RA at -80 °C, so I imagine the lifespan is extended beyond 3 months.

Thank you very much!!

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We also store retinoic acid in -80C. If you use it after 3 months just be wary that it could lose activity.

Good Luck !!!

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