Why are antibodies supplied both with and without BSA and Azide? What is the difference?
Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) is a protein-stabilizing agent and Sodium Azide is a preservative that prevents bacterial growth. For most applications, such as Immunohistochemistry and Western Blotting, either format is suitable, but we recommend ordering the product with the carrier protein and preservative to increase functionality and longevity. However, we recommend that you order products without BSA for ELISA applications and without Azide for biological applications (e.g. cell stimulation). Azide is a potent toxin and is not recommended for use with live cells (e.g. tumor inhibition). Antibodies supplied with BSA and Azide can be stored at 2-8°C, whereas antibodies supplied without BSA and Azide must be stored at -20°C. Products supplied without Azide must also be shipped on blue ice to deter bacterial or mold growth.
