800.227.0627

How to supply protein for sera production?

  • Proteins should be at least 7 kilodaltons in size to be injected without conjugation.
  • 2 mg of protein/antigen is needed for the immunization protocol (2 rabbits).
  • An additional 1 mg of antigen is needed for ELISA testing (3-4 mg total). Please note that for the ELISA analysis on bleed #1, soluble protein is required to complete the analysis. If only a gel slice is submitted, the ELISA will not be performed.
  • An additional 5 mg of antigen is needed if Affinity Purification is requested.
  • Proteins can be sent in solution, as a gel slice, or lyophilized. 
  • Using a nitrocellulose blot is not recommended for antisera production.  It involves dissolving the blot in DMSO and then precipitating the protein in water.  Our experience has been mixed on using nitrocellulose blots.  In general, gel slices are preferable to blots as the immune response is typically higher when using gel slices.
  • The concentration of proteins sent in solution should be at least 1mg/ml.  Please indicate the composition of the solution. 
  • The solution is not a concern providing the concentration is 1 mg/ml.  The solution will be diluted enough when it is injected, causing no harm to the animals.
  • The antigen should be sent overnight on ice packs or dry ice.

Preparation of gel slice for Antisera Production:

  1. Stain the gel lightly with Coumassie Blue
  2. Destain with an acetic acid wash
  3. Wash with distilled water to remove residual destain
  4. Estimate amount of protein
  5. Place gel slice in a conical tube with the estimated amount indicated on the vial
  6. Do not resuspend, lyophilize or homogenize the sample
  7. Ship on cold packs using an overnight carrier

Contact Information for Shipping Protein:

email: support@biosyn.com

address: 612 E. Main Street, Lewisville, Texas 75057