Bead handling best practices

Bead storage:

• Store beads at the recommended storage temperature (listed on the tube).

• Store bead stock tube upright so that the beads are always submerged in buffer.

Bead handling:

• Pipette bead suspensions slowly.

• Before use, allow the beads to come to room temperature.

• Immediately before use, vortex the beads until they are well dispersed. The color of the liquid must appear homogeneous. Vortex throughout protocol as necessary to keep homogeneous.

• Do not overdry the beads prior to elution.

Bead washing:

• Use the specified magnetic stand for the plate.

• Do not agitate the plate while it is on the magnetic stand.

• Do not disturb the bead pellet.

• Dispense liquid so that beads on the side of the wells remain wet.

• Keep the plate on the magnetic stand until the instructions specify to remove it.

• If beads adhere to the side or top of a 96-well plate, centrifuge at 280 x g for 3 seconds, then pipette to resuspend.

• If beads are aspirated into pipette tips, dispense back to the plate on the magnetic stand, and wait until the liquid is clear (~2 minutes).

For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #2136), contact Illumina Technical Support [e-mail].