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 techsupport@illumina.com.
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