Bio-Rad Mini-PROTEAN II Multiscreen Apparatus - Manual (Page 5)

Section 3
Special Handling Features
The multiscreen apparatus can be cleaned with a mild, non-abrasive detergent but not be
autoclaved. Do not subject the unit to temperatures greater than 50 °C, as this will warp acrylic
plates. If the unit becomes warped, it will no longer provide a proper seal. Heating the appa-
ratus to >50 °C voids all warranties.
3.1 Chemical Stability
Chemicals compatible with acrylic plastic:
hydrochloric acid < 50% ethanol
sodium hydroxide < 50% ethanol
Chemicals that will attack acrylic plastic:
all polar aromatic solvents or chlorinated hydrocarbons, esters, and ketones
glacial acetic acid
chromic acid
trichloroacetic acid
> 50% ethanol
> 50% methanol
Section 4
Multiscreen Operating Procedure
4.1 Preparation for the Immunoassay in the Multiscreen Apparatus
1. Electrophorese the antigen sample into a mini gel following the instructions provided
with the Mini-PROTEAN II cell. The maximum length of the separating gel should not
exceed 5.2 cm, the length of the channels on the multiscreen sample template. The stack-
ing gel should be cast with the Mini-PROTEAN II preparative comb. This comb con-
tains one large sample well and one reference well.
2. Blot the gel to nitrocellulose or Zeta-Probe membrane, using a 7 x 8.4 cm membrane
size. Refer to the Mini Trans-Blot, Trans-Blot or Trans-Blot SD cell instruction manual
for electrophoretic transfer procedures.
3. Following the transfer, mark the outline of the gel on the membrane using a pen or pen-
cil. This will aid in aligning the blot with the sample template. Block the unreacted sites
on the blot with a blocking solution, 1 hour at room temperature for nitrocellulose, 2
hours at room temperature for Zeta-Probe membrane. Rinse the blocked blot in TBS
before applying to the multiscreen apparatus. See Section 5 for buffer formulations.
Note: Always use forceps or wear gloves when handling membranes.
4.2 Assembly of the Multiscreen Apparatus
1. Clean and dry the multiscreen apparatus and gaskets prior to assembly.
Note: Do not heat the apparatus to temperatures greater than 50 °C. This will cause the
unit to warp.
2. Place the sealing gasket onto the base plate with the raised surface down, using the guide
pins to help align the gasket.
3