I know that BSA is used in blocking agent. However, why is it added in washing buffer ( and also primary and secondary antibodies)? What is the working mechanism of BSA?
Tween 20 is also added in the antibody, what is the function and working mechanism?
Thank you.
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bob1
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Posted 07 March 2010 - 03:37 PM
I use TBS-tween for my washes, you don't need the BSA. It is important in the antibody steps to reduce non-specific binding by acting as a blocker.
Detergents act as surfactants, helping coat surfaces so that the solutions cover the whole blot. They also increase the specificity of the antibody somehow - I don't know the mechanism.
Detergents act as surfactants, helping coat surfaces so that the solutions cover the whole blot. They also increase the specificity of the antibody somehow - I don't know the mechanism.
