VWR Tube Rotator

July 21, 2016

BlueskyReddit
University of Louisville
Microbiology and Immunology
Graduate Student

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Company:

VWR

Product Name:

Tube Rotator and Rotisseries

Catalog Number:

10136-084

Our project is looking into the binding sites and signaling pathways of specific transcription factors in murine germinal center B cells. To accomplish this, we use chromatin immunoprecipitation kits to target and pull down our genes of interest. One essential step in the protocol for these kits, as with countless other types of experiments, is several hour/overnight rotation at various temperatures. The long-overdue failure of our decades-old rotator necessitated a replacement, which led to the purchase of the VWR 10136-084. This rotator comes with a low pricepoint and a very simple, no frills design. This model can fit basic needs and includes interchangeable racks to hold standard 1.5, 15, and 50mL tubes, but offers only a single rotation speed. It continues for function properly after 100+ hours use at 4-degrees Celsius as well as room temperature.

Experimental Design and Results Summary

Application

General lab use, ChIP

Starting Material

Standard 1.5, 15, and 50mL tubes

Protocol Overview

The rotator used primarily for chromatin immunoprecipitation in overnight and 3-hour rotation periods at 4 degrees Celcius and room temperature. It has been used in a number of other standard lab protocols as well.

Tips

This rotator includes only a single speed. The angle of the tube-racks can be adjusted to change the turbulence of sample in rotation, but have no options in speed.

Results Summary

Our immunoprecipitation experiments were completed successfully, suggesting consistent and functional rotation during the long overnight steps. Other protocols have also been successful using this rotator.

Features Summary

Includes racks for standard 1.5, 15, and 50mL tubes. Open-faced design makes mounting tubes and changing racks relatively easy compared to some bulkier rotators.

Additional Notes

While more lightweight and easier to use, main body of this rotator is plastic and can sometimes feel cheap. It has worked fine thus far, but I question its longevity compared to more sturdy, traditional metal rotators.

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Summary

The Good

Inexpensive, simple design to meet basic needs.

The Bad

No speed setting, less sturdy design with largely plastic parts.

The Bottom Line

This rotator is good to meet basic laboratory needs. It has a low price point, but lacks in features. Will work well for standard protocols, but anything requiring more specific speeds of rotation or other technicalities may call for a higher-quality rotator. While it has worked fine for 100+ hours, the largely plastic and somewhat flimsy construction make me question its long-term function.

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