Frequently Asked Questions - Immunoassay Stabilizer
The cost per test is dependent on the volume per well that is used to coat the solid support with antigen or antibody. The important point here is that a sufficient volume of Immunoassay Stabilizer must be present to completely immerse all adsorbed protein. If 100 µl is used to coat each well, approximately 125 µl per well of Immunoassay Stabilizer should be used. If other coating volumes are used, adjust the volume of Immunoassay Stabilizer accordingly.
No. The reagent has been developed for 1X use. Diluting it will dilute the stabilization effects as well as raise the assay background signal.
In theory, yes. However, each protein must be checked individually for its characteristics in the presence of Immunoassay Stabilizer.
Yes. Use Immunoassay Stabilizer as described after adsorbing your antigen or antibody. Allow the membrane to drip dry then transfer it to a desiccator.
Proteins in aqueous solution depend upon interaction with water molecules to hold their shape. Removing the water forces the protein to change its conformation in order to attain a low molecular energy state. This causes previously functional epitopes to be rendered immunologically unrecognizable. Immunoassay Stabilizer essentially replaces the water as the protein is dried allowing the protein to retain much of its fully hydrated structure and function.
The benefit of using Immunoassay Stabilizer will vary by application but can be expected to improve the assay function and stability or considerably reduce the cost of making the assay.
No. The Immunoassay stabilizer contains a blocking protein.
The drying of the protein is crucial to retention of immunological activity over time. Residual water allows molecular movement and disrupts the stasis of desiccated storage. It is recommended that the protein be air dried to remove excess moisture and dried in a desiccated cabinet at room temperature overnight. In addition, packaging the dried, immobilized protein in a vapor barrier pouch with a desiccant is necessary for optimum stability.
No. Plastic zipper bags allow air and gas interchange. The protein will reacquire water and lose stability. Heat sealable Mylar pouches are recommended.