Question

Whenever ordering primers, I'm always asked to specify which delivery matrix I prefer to have the oligos delivered in: wet (in water or some kind of TE buffer) vs. dry.

My understanding is that when stored dry, the primers can last up to 24 months in the freezer. However, for the primers to be useable, one needs to rehydrate them into the appropriate concentration.

So I'm wondering, what are the pros/cons of having primers shipped wet vs dry?

Answer 1

The pros of having primers shipped wet include convenience, while the pros of having primers shipped dry include longer shelf life. However, there are cons to consider for both options.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pros of having primers shipped wet include the convenience of having them ready-to-use without the need for rehydration. This saves time and ensures that the primers are immediately available for experiments. In contrast, the pros of having primers shipped dry include longer shelf life, as dry primers can last up to 24 months in the freezer. Dry primers are also more stable during shipping and less prone to degradation.

However, there are also cons to consider. Wet primers may have a shorter shelf life, as they are already in a hydrated state. They may require more careful handling and storage to maintain their integrity. Dry primers, on the other hand, need to be rehydrated before use, which adds an additional step to the experimental process.