FAQ: What conditions are recommended for SNAP-tag labeling in vitro?

The SNAP-tag labeling reaction is tolerant of a wide range of buffers. The requirements of the fusion partner should dictate the buffer selected. The following buffer guidelines are recommended: pH between 5.0 and 10.0, monovalent salts (e.g. sodium chloride) between 50 mM to 250 mM and at least 1 mM DTT. Non-ionic detergents can be added to 0.5% v/v if required, but SDS and other ionic detergents should be avoided entirely because they inhibit the activity of the SNAP-tag. Metal chelating reagents (e.g., EDTA and EGTA) also inhibit SNAP-tag activity and should be avoided.