WESTAR® Supernova: High-Sensitivity ECL Substrate for Precise Protein Detection
WESTAR® Supernova is a premium chemiluminescent HRP substrate designed for researchers requiring high-sensitivity detection in the mid-to-low femtogram range. It serves as an essential tool for molecular biology laboratories performing Western blots where standard ECL reagents lack the power to resolve low-abundance proteins. By balancing extreme brightness with a sustained signal, Supernova provides a reliable digital or film-based workflow that captures high-quality, quantifiable data across a wide range of protein concentrations.
The formulation of WESTAR® Supernova is optimised to enhance the HRP-luminol reaction, producing a robust light signal that remains stable for several hours. This stability is critical for laboratories processing multiple blots, as it allows for repeated exposures without a significant loss in sensitivity. The high signal-to-noise ratio ensures that researchers can confidently distinguish specific protein bands from background interference, while the substrate’s efficiency allows for the significant dilution of both primary and secondary antibodies, reducing overall experimental costs.
Key Benefits:
- High Sensitivity Performance: Detect proteins in the low femtogram range. Supernova is engineered to identify targets that are beyond the reach of entry-level ECL reagents, making it ideal for detecting proteins in complex lysates.
- Extended Signal Stability: Consistent light output for over 4 hours. The stable chemical kinetics allow for flexible imaging schedules and multiple exposures, ensuring you capture the perfect image even hours after substrate application.
- Optimised Reagent Usage: Preserve your antibody stocks. The enhanced brightness of Supernova allows for higher primary antibody dilutions (up to 1:100,000), significantly extending the life of your most valuable reagents.
- Quantitative Accuracy: Linear response over a broad range. The substrate provides a wide dynamic range with excellent linearity, making it perfectly suited for accurate densitometry and protein quantification.
- Versatile Compatibility: Designed for modern workflows. While specifically optimised for high-performance CCD imaging systems like the ChemiFlow, it is fully compatible with X-ray film for traditional darkroom setups.
Technical Insights
Enhanced Signal Duration and Sensitivity
WESTAR® Supernova bridges the gap between routine detection and extreme attogram-level substrates. In comparative tests, it demonstrates a significantly higher signal intensity than standard “Enhanced” ECL products, while maintaining a low background. This allows researchers to reduce sample loading amounts, which is vital when working with limited or precious biological samples.
Streamlined Laboratory Workflow
The two-component system is designed for ease of use, with a working solution that remains stable on the benchtop for up to 24 hours. This reliability ensures that performance remains consistent throughout a long day of blotting, providing reproducible results across different users and experimental runs.
Specifications
- Detection Limit: Low to mid femtogram
- Signal Duration: Up to 4-5 hours
- Working Solution Stability: 24 hours at room temperature
- Shelf Life: 1 year at room temperature (Stable for shipping at ambient temperature)
- Primary Antibody Dilution: 1:5,000 – 1:100,000
- Secondary Antibody Dilution: 1:100,000 – 1:500,000
- Compatibility: CCD imagers and X-ray film
- Pack Sizes: 2 x 50 mL (1000 cm² membrane)