Storage of PVDF membranes after western

[cintiadp]

Hi there,

does anybody have a tip how to store the PVDF membranes after the first development and before the next stripping?

Thanks!

[danfive]

You can wash them and dry them, or store them in wash or blocking buffer.

[cintiadp]

Thank you for your answer. If we dry them, will they work next time? Which volume should I keep it in the buffer- just enough to cover it?

[danfive]

Originally Posted by cintiadp

Thank you for your answer. If we dry them, will they work next time? Which volume should I keep it in the buffer- just enough to cover it?

Yeah just enough to cover it. Yes the dried membranes will work again but you will have to activate the membrane by immersing it in methanol first. Some research says that the methanol step harms the protein and later western results---but this is totally dependent on your protein.

[cintiadp]

How long have you kept your membranes for later use? And how many times have you stripped it?

[danfive]

Originally Posted by cintiadp

How long have you kept your membranes for later use? And how many times have you stripped it?

I've stored membranes for two weeks wet and they performed fine; dry they should be stable for 6-12 months (so I heard). I've stripped as many as two times (basic pH). Never tried for more than two weeks or stripping more than twice, so they may last longer and endure more stripping, I don't know.

[Towe]

I called the company from were I buy my membrane and asked them the very question you asked. I have a PVDF transfer membrane and they told me to NOT dry it out. If I want to keep it I should put it in TBS in the fridge.

[danfive]

Originally Posted by Towe

I called the company from were I buy my membrane and asked them the very question you asked. I have a PVDF transfer membrane and they told me to NOT dry it out. If I want to keep it I should put it in TBS in the fridge.

That is good advice, keeping the membranes wet is my preferred method as well.