Plates and Modules with Covalent Binding Surfaces

We have tested and found that a three amino acid peptide (Pro, Leu, Gly) cannot be detected when passively adsorbed on the MaxiSorp surface. However, this peptide can be detected when covalently immobilized using CovaLink NH modules and plates. Using covalent immobilization of small peptide residues, one can obtain a better orientation of the molecule and reduced problems with antibody recognition of the peptide due to masking of the epitope.

Our Thermo Scientific 8-Well Strip Caps for Immuno Standard Modules were designed to provide a positive seal for flat and round bottom wells of our Nunc MicroWell 96-Well Microplates and Nunc Immuno 96-Well Plates.
8-Well Strip Caps for Immuno Standard Modules are not compatible with C or V bottom wells of the Nunc Microwell 96-Well Microplates and Nunc Immuno 96-Well Plates.

The following list describes the geometries of wells available for Nunc Immuno-plates and modules:
- Flat bottom (F): Allows maximum transmission of light. These plates can be read on a monochromatic reader.
- Round bottom (U): This geometry optimizes washing and coating. These plates can be read using a dual wavelength reader.
- "C" bottom (C): This design of the well is a combination of both flat and round bottoms. Basically, it is a flat bottomed well with curved edges at the bottom. These plates also can be read using a monochromatic reader combining optimal reading and washing.
- StarWell: These wells have a modified "C" shape geometry with eight fins strategically placed at the bottom. This feature increases surface area, allowing more molecules to become immobilized which reduces incubation times.

We recommend using a freshly made methylimidazole and carbodiimide condensing agents for optimal covalent binding of both proteins and DNA (nucleic acids). The binding efficiency of single-stranded oligo (a 5' phosphorylated end of a single-stranded oligomer binds with a phosphoramidate bond) is about 8 - 10% with a typical 25 base oligo.

We recommend Nunc CovaLink surface modules for use with molecules that adsorb with difficulty to a traditional surface. Due to the covalent binding, very thorough washing is possible, which allows for orientation of the molecule and better recognition by the detection molecule.