Albumin FAQ: Properties, Uses & Lab Handling

Albumin is a highly water-soluble, multifunctional serum protein widely used in research as a carrier, blocking agent, and cell culture supplement.

Solubility

Soluble in water

Primary Source

Typically derived from bovine or human serum

Molecular Weight

Approximately 66–69 kDa (review flag: confirm exact value for this SKU)

Common Applications

Blocking agent in ELISA/WB, cell culture media supplement, drug binding studies, standard protein for BCA/Bradford assays

SKU

A107820B

Storage Recommendation

Typically stored at 2–8 °C or as specified on product label (review flag: confirm for A107820B)

What Is Albumin and Why Is It Used in Research?

Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, playing critical roles in maintaining oncotic pressure and transporting a wide variety of endogenous and exogenous molecules including fatty acids, hormones, and drugs. In the laboratory setting, albumin—most commonly bovine serum albumin (BSA)—is prized for its high water solubility, stability, and versatile binding capacity. Researchers use albumin as a blocking agent to prevent non-specific antibody binding in immunoassays such as ELISA and Western blotting, as a stabilizing carrier for enzymes and other labile proteins, and as a supplement in cell culture media. Aladdin Scientific supplies albumin (SKU: A107820B) to support these diverse research applications.

Solubility and Preparation of Albumin Solutions

Albumin is readily soluble in water, making it straightforward to prepare stock solutions for laboratory use. To dissolve albumin, add the appropriate amount of powder to room-temperature purified water or buffer (e.g., phosphate-buffered saline, PBS) and gently swirl or stir—avoid vigorous vortexing or foaming, which can denature the protein. Allow the powder to hydrate fully before adjusting to the final volume. For most applications, albumin solutions are prepared at concentrations ranging from 1% to 10% (w/v). Once dissolved, filter-sterilize through a 0.22 µm membrane if the solution is intended for cell culture. Use freshly prepared solutions where possible, or store aliquots at 2–8 °C for short-term use.

Key Laboratory Applications of Albumin

Albumin serves a broad range of functions across life-science research disciplines:

• Immunoassay Blocking: A 1–5% BSA solution in PBST is a standard blocking buffer in ELISA and Western blotting to reduce background signal from non-specific protein interactions.
• Cell Culture: Albumin supplements serum-free and chemically defined media, where it stabilizes lipids, hormones, and growth factors critical for cell survival and proliferation.
• Protein Quantification Standards: BSA is the universal reference standard in Bradford, BCA (bicinchoninic acid), and Lowry colorimetric protein assays.
• Enzyme Stabilization: Addition of BSA (typically 0.1–1 mg/mL) to enzyme storage or reaction buffers protects against surface adsorption and thermal inactivation.
• Drug and Ligand Binding Studies: Albumin's multiple binding sites make it a model protein for pharmacokinetic and biophysical binding experiments.

Storage, Stability, and Handling Guidelines

Proper storage of albumin is essential to maintain its integrity and functional performance. As a general guideline, albumin powder should be stored at 2–8 °C in a tightly sealed container, protected from moisture and direct light. Prepared solutions are best used fresh; if storage is required, aliquot to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause aggregation and denaturation. Always consult the specific product label and Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for Aladdin SKU A107820B for confirmed storage temperature, expiry, and purity specifications. When handling albumin, use standard laboratory personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and a lab coat; while albumin is not classified as hazardous, good laboratory practice should always be observed.

Ordering and Product Specifications for Aladdin Albumin (A107820B)

Aladdin Scientific's albumin (SKU: A107820B) is available for order through the Aladdin website. When placing an order, ensure you select the correct quantity and packaging format for your laboratory's needs. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are available upon request or through the product page. For questions regarding pricing, promotions, minimum order quantities, shipping timelines, or return policies, please contact Aladdin's customer service team. Bulk and institutional pricing may be available for larger quantities. For technical questions about application suitability or protocol adaptation, Aladdin's scientific support team can provide guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Is albumin (A107820B) soluble in water?

Yes. Albumin is soluble in water. To prepare a solution, gently dissolve the required amount in purified water or aqueous buffer at room temperature, avoiding vigorous agitation that could cause foaming or denaturation.

What are the most common laboratory uses of albumin?

Albumin is most commonly used as a blocking agent in immunoassays (ELISA, Western blot), as a protein standard in colorimetric assays (BCA, Bradford), as a stabilizer for enzymes and growth factors, and as a supplement in serum-free cell culture media.

How should I store albumin to maintain its activity?

Albumin powder should generally be stored at 2–8 °C in a sealed, moisture-free container away from light. Prepared solutions should be aliquoted and, if not used immediately, stored at 2–8 °C for short-term use; repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided to prevent aggregation. Always refer to the product label and CoA for SKU A107820B for definitive storage instructions.

Can albumin be used in serum-free cell culture media?

Yes, albumin is widely used as a supplement in serum-free and chemically defined cell culture media, where it helps stabilize lipids, transport hormones and fatty acids, and support cell viability. Ensure the albumin solution is filter-sterilized through a 0.22 µm membrane before adding to culture media.

How do I order albumin (A107820B) from Aladdin Scientific?

You can order albumin (SKU: A107820B) directly through the Aladdin Scientific website. For pricing, bulk order inquiries, shipping options, or return and refund policies, please contact Aladdin's customer service team. A Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet are available on request.

References

1. Peters, T. Jr. All About Albumin: Biochemistry, Genetics, and Medical Applications. Academic Press, 1995.
2. Sigma-Aldrich / Merck product documentation for Bovine Serum Albumin — general reference for BSA properties and applications.
3. Aladdin Scientific product page and Certificate of Analysis for Albumin, SKU A107820B.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.