Does GelCode Blue Stain Reagent contain coomassie G-250 or R-250 dye and what is the difference?
GelCode Blue Stain Reagent contains coomassie G-250 dye. Coomassie G (green)-250 is greenish, stains bright blue, is less soluble and used in colloidal form (stain enters a protein better than the acrylamide, so background is minimized). Coomassie R (red)-250 dye is reddish, stains dark blue and is more soluble, usually resulting in high background.
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Is there a faster staining method using GelCode Blue Stain Reagent?
Yes. The product instructions include a microwave procedure for faster staining with only a minimal loss in sensitivity. Protein bands can be detected approximately 30 minutes after electrophoresis.
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Do any gel types require fixing before staining with the GelCode Blue Stain Reagent?
Yes. For gels electrophoresed with MOPS or MES running buffers, fix gel with 50% methanol and 7% acetic acid for 15 minutes and extensively wash with water.
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Can a GelCode Blue Reagent-stained gel also be stained with silver stain?
Yes. The GelCode Blue Reagent-stained gel must be fixed overnight with 30% methanol and 10% acetic acid, followed by washing with water for 1 hour; then the gel is then ready for staining with a silver stain (e.g., Cat. No. 24612).
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Assays and Analysis Support Center.
Can GelCode Blue Stain Reagent be used for isoelectric focusing (IEF) gels?
Yes. IEF gels can be stained, but they first must be fixed in 20% TCA for 30 minutes followed by washing with water for 30 minutes; then the gel can be stained as usual.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Protein Assays and Analysis Support Center.