XCell II™ Blot Module

Yes. While we would prefer that you use our devices, Bolt gels can also be transferred using devices from Bio-Rad, including the Mini Trans-Blot Cell, Trans-Blot SD Semi-Dry Transfer Cell, or Trans-Blot Turbo Transfer System.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Electrophoresis and Western Blotting Support Center.

Here are some options for obtaining more efficient transfer for larger proteins:

1) Pre-equilibrate the gel with 0.02 to 0.04% SDS in 2X transfer buffer without methanol for 10 min before assembling the sandwich.

2) Increase the blotting time incrementally (in 15 min intervals).

3) Add 0.01% or 0.02% SDS to the transfer buffer to help facilitate the migration of the protein out of the gel.

4) Decrease the methanol content in the transfer buffer.

5) Switch to a more appropriate lower-percentage gel. A lower-percentage gel may allow better transfer than a higher-percentage gel.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Electrophoresis and Western Blotting Support Center.

No. The solution placed in the outer chamber serves to dissipate the heat generated during blotting. Water is usually used for this purpose. The recommended transfer conditions generate only a minor heat increase, so it is not necessary to run the unit in an ice bucket or to place it in a cold room. However if you are working with very heat-sensitive proteins, you may wish to do so.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Electrophoresis and Western Blotting Support Center.

Build-up can be removed with 50% nitric acid. Make a solution of 50% nitric acid in deionized water and carefully apply it to areas inside the blot module until residual build-up is removed. Do not submerge the blot module or soak overnight. Use gloves when preparing the solution. Afterwards, rinse the module thoroughly at least three times in fresh deionized water. This treatment should not harm the plastic.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Electrophoresis and Western Blotting Support Center.

Build-up can be removed with 50% nitric acid. Make a solution of 50% nitric acid in deionized water and carefully apply it to areas inside the blot module until residual build-up is removed. Do not submerge the blot module or soak overnight. Use gloves when preparing the solution. Afterwards, rinse the module thoroughly at least three times in fresh deionized water. This treatment should not harm the plastic.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Electrophoresis and Western Blotting Support Center.