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From: roca@psl.wisc.edu (Alberto I. Roca)
Subject: Re: Seeking alternatives to silanizing gel plates
Message-ID: <1991Apr11.163024.9063@pslu1.psl.wisc.edu>
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Organization: University of Wisconsin - Physical Science Lab
References: <384.2803536d@mbcl.rutgers.edu>
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 91 16:30:24 GMT

In article <384.2803536d@mbcl.rutgers.edu>, kliman@mbcl.rutgers.edu writes:
>
>     We have found that repeated silanization of glass plates used for DNA
>sequencing gels eventually leads to problems in pouring the gel, i.e., the gel
>mix does not flow evenly and forms persistent bubbles.  While we can correct
>this by overnight soaking in 10-20% NaOH, we would rather not leave large
>volumes of NaOH out overnight on a regular basis.  And, of course, we would
>prefer to decrease our exposure to silane..
>    Has anyone else experienced similar problems?  We'd appreciate any 
>suggested alternatives to silanization that could be used on a daily basis.
>Thanks.  

We coat one side of one plate with Rain-X (available from hardware stores).
Other people spray their plates with Pam. In either case, it is unnecessary
to treat with silanization.


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Alberto I. Roca                 Internet: roca@vms.macc.wisc.edu
Biochemistry                    Bitnet:   roca@wiscmacc
420 Henry Mall
University of Wisconsin-Madison
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