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A lysis buffer is a buffer solution used for the purpose of lysing cells for use in molecular biology experiments that analyze the compounds of the cells (e.g. western blot). Generally, the aim of any lysis buffer is to mimic the internal conditions of the cell (or cellular compartment) in order to preserve the structure and/or function of the contents of the lysate. Most lysis buffers contain salts (e.g. Tris-HCl or EDTA) to regulate the acidity and osmolarity of the lysate, while detergents (such as Triton X-100 or SDS) are added to break up membrane structures.
In studies like DNA fingerprinting the lysis buffer is used for DNA isolation. Dish soap can be used in a pinch to break down the cell and nuclear membranes, allowing the DNA to be released. Other such lysis buffers include the proprietary Qiagen product Buffer P2.
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