We have purified some of Fabs and would like to get some feedback on the best way to store them. Ideas on
• Which buffer?
• With/without glycerol?
• 4oC or -20 oC?
Would be greatly appreciated.
Dear Christopher
Perhaps the two most important considerations when storing
antibodies are the storage container and the temperature.
Ideally, preferred materials for storage containers of protein
solutions should have negligible protein adsorptivity. Polypropylene,
polycarbonate or borosilicate glass are recommended and are used
widely. Solutions containing very low concentrations of protein (ie, less
than 10-100 μg/mL), should receive an addition of immunochemically
inert protein. Generally, 0.1% to 1.0% bovine albumin is used to
reduce loss through polymerization and adsorption onto the container.
Containers made of clear and colorless materials are preferred, as
these will allow ready inspection of contents. Container labels also
should allow access for inspection.
Monitor refrigerators and freezers used for storage of immunochemicals
for accurate and consistent temperatures. Store valuable or large
quantities of immunochemical reagents in equipment with temperature
alarm and emergency back-up power systems.
Store most antibodies and their conjugates solutions at 2-8 °C,
because freezing and thawing is known to have a deleterious effect on
their performance. This also applies to entire kits that contain readyto-
use reagents, including monoclonal antibodies. Store concentrated
protein solutions such as antisera and immunoglobulin fractions in
aliquots and frozen at –20 °C or below, in order to prevent cycles of
repeated freezing and thawing. Bring frozen protein solutions to room
temperature slowly, and avoid temperatures above 25 °C.
Proper reagent care can reduce problems stemming from
contamination, heat or excessive light exposure. Reagent
contamination can be avoided by the use of clean pipet tips. Prompt
return of reagents to proper storage conditions will prolong their
shelf life
Best Regards
Sibtain
If possible, at concentrations > 1 mg/mL, if not, add as described above some inert protein like BSA or hydrolyzed gelatin. The solution should be free of proteases, so you can add 1 mmol/L PMSF. ... and store in small aliquots below the eutectic point (below -40 °C)
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Biological Science
- Immunology