How to Store Western Blot PVDF membrane after transfer?
Western blot membranes may need to be stored for future analysis or retesting. One advantage of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) compared to nitrocellulose (NC) membranes is the stability of PVDF, a chemically resistant polymer with excellent long-term stability. Therefore, PVDF membranes can be stored and sample proteins can be preserved for long periods of time.
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Blot Storage Protocol
Protocol A
- Sandwich the dry PVDF membrane between two clean sheets of filter paper.
- Place the sandwich between two sheets of card stock or thin cardboard.
- Use paper clips to clip the stack together on the edges.
- Place the stack in a plastic bag and seal the plastic bag closed.
- Store the PVDF membrane at 4 ˚C for up to 2 weeks, -20 ˚C for up to 2 months, or -70 ˚C for longer storage.
- Note: Thaw frozen blots to RT before removal from the plastic bag because frozen blots are prone to breakage.
Protocol B
- PVDF membrane could also be stored wet at 4 ˚C, but sodium azide should be added to prevent bacterial growth. As sodium azide inhibits HRP activity, it should be thoroughly washed out of a blot prior to use.
* It is important however that you rehydrate the membrane with methanol prior to their use (i.e. blocking and then incubating with your antibody).
