How to Store PVDF Membranes: Best Practices for Longevity and Performance
PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride) membranes are a staple in protein blotting workflows due to their high binding capacity and reprobing ability. But improper storage can compromise signal quality and reproducibility.
Here are a few key tips to help you preserve your PVDF membranes:
1. Always Keep It Dry After Use
Once a blot is completed, rinse the membrane in distilled water, allow it to air dry completely, and store it flat. Avoid folding or creasing the membrane.
2. Label Clearly and Store Flat
Use a pencil to label the membrane before use (ink may dissolve in solvents). Store in a clean plastic sleeve or between pieces of clean filter paper inside a sealed plastic bag or container.
3. Refrigerate for Short-Term, Freeze for Long-Term
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For storage under 2 weeks: Keep membranes at 4°C (fridge) in sealed packaging with minimal air.
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For storage beyond 2 weeks: Store at -20°C in a moisture-proof container. Always allow membranes to come to room temperature before rehydration.
4. To Reuse or Not?
PVDF membranes can often be stripped and reprobed several times. However, signal quality may degrade with each round. Be sure to note the number of times used and monitor for background noise.
5. Rehydration Reminder
Before reprobing, rehydrate the membrane in methanol, then rinse with water or TBST. Always follow the same blocking conditions used in the original experiment to reduce background variation.
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