Description
The iBind Flex Western Device is an automated benchtop system that handles western blot immunodetection processing — blocking, antibody incubations, and washes — without a shaker, trays, or timers. It uses sequential lateral flow (SLF) technology, in which solutions are released from wells in the device onto a disposable iBind Flex Card and wicked across a glass fiber matrix to the membrane, driven entirely by capillary action rather than an external power source, electricity, or batteries.
The device is built around three user-interchangeable well inserts, allowing it to process up to one midi blot, two mini blots, or six vertically cut strip blots in a single run — including the ability to run different primary and secondary antibody conditions simultaneously on the same device. Once solutions are loaded at the start of the run, the entire process proceeds automatically and unattended, with the blot ready for detection in roughly 2.5 hours. It supports standard downstream detection chemistries (chromogenic, chemiluminescent, or fluorescent) and works with common membrane types, making it a drop-in replacement for manual blocking/washing/antibody steps in existing western blot workflows.
Because it requires no electrical connection to run and automates several traditionally hands-on and variable steps, it’s often used to improve reproducibility and reduce primary antibody consumption compared to manual processing, while freeing up bench time during a multi-hour incubation window.
Features:
- Sequential lateral flow (SLF) technology — Capillary-driven reagent flow, no shakers, trays, timers, or external power needed.
- Three interchangeable well inserts — Reconfigures the device for a midi blot, mini blots, or strip blots.
- Simultaneous multi-condition processing — Different antibody conditions can run at once in the same device.
- Glass fiber matrix cards (iBind Flex Cards) — Provide homogeneous, consistent solution flow to the membrane.
- Hands-free automated workflow — Blocking, incubation, and washing proceed automatically after loading.
- Compatible detection chemistries — Chromogenic, chemiluminescent, or fluorescent, depending on kit used.
- Reduced reagent use — Requires less primary antibody than manual processing.
- Includes roller — Seats the membrane against the iBind Flex Card for consistent contact.
Specifications:
- Capacity/throughput: 1 midi blot, 2 mini blots, or 6 vertically-cut strip blots
- Running time: ~2.5 hours
- Detection methods: Chromogenic, chemiluminescent, fluorescent
- Membrane compatibility: Nitrocellulose, PVDF
- Power requirement: None (capillary-driven SLF)
- Required consumables (not included): iBind Flex Cards; iBind Flex Solution Kit or iBind Flex FD Solution Kit
