Amersham WB system: a complete solution for standardised and reproducible Western Blots
Cytiva's Amersham WB is a fully integrated system for protein separation and transfer by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, followed by fluorescence detection. Each step, from sample preparation to final evaluation, is carefully standardised to minimise assay variability and ensure reliable, comparable results from one experiment to the next.
The system consists of two main units: one for electrophoresis and image scanning, and another for transfer, antibody detection and membrane drying. The entire process is controlled by Amersham WB software, which offers adjustable predefined protocols and automatic analysis of results as soon as the experiments are complete.
Amersham WB is based on optimised fluorescent detection. Thanks to the pre-labelling of proteins with Cy5 chemistry, gels can be scanned directly without additional staining. This fluorescent labelling also enables reliable normalisation by simultaneously detecting targets and controls on the same membrane, thus minimising loading errors.
Complete Western analysis can be performed in less than four hours, representing a considerable time saving compared to traditional methods. Each consumable is designed to ensure high reproducibility: Amersham WB gel cards, PVDF membranes optimised for low background noise, and secondary antibodies labelled with Cy3 and Cy5 dyes.
For sample preparation, several pre-labelling protocols are available, including a rapid five-minute protocol suitable for qualitative analyses. The system is also compatible with post-translational modification analyses, rapid protein composition screening, and complex quantitative comparisons between different biological samples.
Ease of use is enhanced by preformed gel cards with secure orientation, integrated migration indicators, and an easy-to-assemble transfer system. In addition to analytical performance, the Amersham WB reduces the risk of human error through intelligent consumable design and advanced automation.
The system is suitable for a wide range of molecular weights, from 3.5 kDa to 225 kDa depending on the type of experiment. It also offers a wide range of accessories to meet the specific needs of Western blotting in biomedical and pharmaceutical research.
