Michaelis buffer is a buffer solution commonly used in biological and biochemical experiments to stabilize the pH of solutions and maintain optimal conditions for biological processes and enzyme activities. In histology and histopathology, the buffer is used to stabilize the pH of staining solutions to ensure optimal staining conditions for the examination of tissue samples.

One of the main components of Michaelis buffer is barbituric acid sodium salt. Barbituric acid sodium salt is a weak acid/base pair and acts as a buffer component in this buffer system. It can absorb or release protons to counteract fluctuations in pH and thus keep the pH of the solution stable. Here, the buffering capacity is strongest in the range of the pKs value of barbituric acid, which is about 8.6.

In addition to barbituric acid sodium salt, the Michaelis buffer contains hydrochloric acid, sodium chloride, sodium acetate and ultrapure water. Hydrochloric acid is used to adjust the pH of the solution, while sodium chloride and sodium acetate act as additional buffer components and help stabilize the pH. Ultrapure water serves as a solvent and ensures that the buffer components are evenly distributed and dissolved.

Overall, the Michaelis buffer provides a reliable and effective way to stabilize pH in biological and biochemical experiments as well as in histological and histopathological analysis.