Introduction:

Coomassie Blue Fast Destaining Solution provides a convenient method for destaining of protein gels after coomassie blue staining. The protein bands can be observed in less than 30 minutes with fast destaining solution while 1 hour should be taken by the conventional destaining method.

Storage: Store at room temperature, valid for 1 year.

Protocol (for reference only):

1. Conventional destaining method

1. After staining, decant the staining solution and add a sufficient volume of destaining solution to completely cover the gel.
2. Place the gel on a horizontal shaker or a side-swing shaker, incubate for 4 to 24 hours with gently shaking.
3. Change the destaining solution 2 to 4 times until the blue background is removed and the desired protein bands appear. Protein bands usually appear after 1 to 2 hours of destaining.
4. Store the gel in water for subsequent photography.

2. Fast destaining method

1. After staining, decant the staining solution and add a sufficient volume of destaining solution to completely cover the gel.
2. Microwave for 60 seconds or until solution is about to boil. Do not let solution boil to evaporation.
3. Place the gel on a horizontal shaker or a side-swing shaker, incubate for 5 to 10 minutes with gently shaking while the solution is still hot.
4. Change destaining solution and repeat steps 2) and 3) until the background is removed and the desired protein bands appear.
5. Store the gel in water for subsequent photography.

Notes:

1. A piece of absorbent paper can be put into the gel container during destaining, which will enhance the destaining process by absorbing excess stain leaching from the gel.
2. Prolonged destaining can cause the protein bands to become lighter in color.
3. An appropriate amount of room temperature distilled water can be added for washing if lower background and clearer protein bands are desired. Soaking overnight in distilled water at 4°C can further reduce the background. Repeating the same staining and washing steps as the previous day on the stained gel soaked in distilled water at 4°C overnight can further improve the staining effect and obtain better protein bands.
4. The high temperature caused by microwave heating will cause the volatilization of acetic acid in the staining solution and destaining solution. It is recommended that this be done in a fume hood.
5. This destaining solution is acidic and slightly corrosive. For your safety and health, please wear personal protective equipment and clothing for operation.
6. For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.