While the data sheet for the beta-actin antibody I use (see attached) suggests a dilution range of 1:100-1:1000, I've found that following this recommendation leaves me with bands so thick and bright that it makes comparison difficult and dodgy.
After lots of trial and error, I've found that a dilution of 1:17,500 gives me thinner, more reasonable bands, but it shocks me that I'd need to deviate so drastically from the manufacturer's recommendation. Has anyone else encountered a similar phenomenon? Or have any idea why this might be happening? If it helps, my protein usually comes from RAW264.7 or NIH3T3 cells.