Western Blot Blocking Buffers

Western blot blocking buffers are solutions used to block the remaining binding surface during a Western blot, prior to transferring antibodies onto the membrane. This ensures that antibodies will bind only to their intended epitope to produce specific signals. Proper blocking also minimizes background interference and increases the signal-to-noise ratio, making detection more efficient and accurate. Western blot blocking buffers vary in composition and type. Many are solutions of mixed proteins, such as serum or milk. Other blocking solutions that contain a single type of protein, such as BSA, are useful for compatibility with specific chemical conditions. Often diluted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or Tris-buffered saline (TBS), blocking buffers can be combined with detergents to further increase effectivity. The type of buffer to be used depends on the application and system. Applications using an alkaline phosphatase conjugate will often use a blocking buffer in TBS, as PBS interferes with AP activity. The strength of the blocking buffer should also be carefully determined as weak blocking buffers may result in non-specific bands. Certain buffers can be used for fluorescent Western blot applications as well. Visit the supplier page for more product information, such as concentration and conjugate/tag/label.