Staining quality is significantly reduced or inconsistent when using generic diluent instead of product-specific recommended diluent, as different antibodies perform optimally in different buffer compositions.
Common Causes
1Using TBST/5% NGS for antibody that requires SignalStain® Antibody Diluent (e.g., Phospho-Akt Ser473 #4060)
2Using SignalStain® Antibody Diluent for antibody that performs better in TBST/5% NGS (e.g., Phospho-EGFR Tyr1173 #4407)
3Assuming all antibodies work with same diluent formulation without checking product datasheet
Solutions
1Always check product datasheet for recommended primary antibody diluent specific to each antibody
2Use SignalStain® Antibody Diluent when specified on datasheet (superior for certain phospho-antibodies)
3Use TBST/5% NGS when specified on datasheet (better for certain receptor antibodies)
4If using non-recommended diluent, perform full antibody titration to re-optimize dilution