Pore size. Both membranes come in t

Pore size. Both membranes come in typical pore sizes of 0.1, 0.2 or 0.45μm. The 0.45μm membrane is suitable for most protein blotting applications but for smaller peptides or lower molecular weight proteins (less than 15 kD), you should use 0.1 or 0.2μm pore size membrane. Note: When you are detecting a protein loaded at low levels or when quantification is considered critical, you should always choose the smaller size membrane.

Membrane format. There are several factors that you need to take into account when choosing the most suitable membrane format, including transfer system (semi-dry, wet or fast), convenience, price and flexibility. Pre-cut and pre-wetted membranes are the ideal choice when convenience, reproducibility and high throughput are of highest importance while rolls offers more flexibility since you can cut the membrane to the specific size of your gel. The only problem is that this can add extra time to your workflow and introduce variability in the membrane size. Pre-cut membranes, on the other hand, are available in a range of sizes suitable for all gel types. Using a precut membrane may result in better transfer reproducibility.

While both nitrocellulose and PVDF membranes are used for Western blotting and amino acid analysis, nitrocellulose is ideal in detecting low molecular weight proteins while PVDF is more suitable for detecting higher molecular weight proteins. In addition, nitrocellulose can be used for nucleic acid analysis and dot/slot blotting while PVDF can be used for protein sequencing and solid phase assay systems.

Keep in mind that you can get more reliable results from your Western blot experiment by choosing the correct membrane type. So, choose carefully and you will surely get the results that you need.