User Manual
Section 1
Introduction
The Bio-Dot microfiltration apparatus can be used for any application requiring rapid
immobilization and screening of unfractionated or purified proteins, nucleic acids, or
macromolecular complexes on membranes, such as nitrocellulose or Zeta-Probe
®
membrane.
The Bio-Dot apparatus is provided as a complete unit, or as a modular addition to the
Bio-Dot SF slot format microfiltration apparatus. Conversion of the Bio-Dot apparatus to the
Bio-Dot SF apparatus is accomplished by purchasing the Bio-Dot SF module, which provides
the 48-well slot format sample template.
The Bio-Dot apparatus is simple to operate. As shown in figure 1, a sheet of membrane is
clamped between the gasket and the 96-well sample template. The gasket is aligned
above the support plate, which is placed over the vacuum reservoir. This assembly is
attached to a vacuum source by the in-line 3-way flow valve, which allows on/off control of
vacuum during assay procedures. The entire assembly is held together by the four screws
on the sample template, and the patented rubber sealing gasket seals prevent well-to-well
leakage, whether the vacuum is on or off. Sample can be easily applied to the 96-well
formate with a standard pipet or with the Costar Octapette pipet. The material used in the
construction of the Bio-Dot blotting apparatus can withstand rigorous sterilization and
cleanup procedures. The Bio-Dot apparatus can be repeatedly autoclaved, and is resistant
to many chemicals, including acids, bases, and ethanol.
1.1 Specifications
Materials
Bio-Dot apparatus Molded polysulfone
Bio-Dot gasket Silicone rubber
Stopcock Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
®
Tubing Tygon
®
Shipping weight 600 grams
Overall size 13 x 15 x 6 cm
Membrane size 12 x 9 cm sheet
Autoclaving 15 minutes at 250°F (121°C) with a 1 minute fast
exhaust
Chemical compatibility The Bio-Dot apparatus can be used with 100% alcohol
solutions and concentrated alkali or acid solutions. It
cannot be used with aromatic or chlorinated
hydrocarbons. (See table 1)
1