A stable protein matrix for dilution of serum and other aqueous-based biological samples.

General Serum Diluent is formulated to provide a stable, protein-friendly environment for dilution of serum, cell culture, ascites, urine, and other aqueous-based biological samples for evaluation within an ELISA format. It can serve as an excellent generic matrix in which to dilute antigen standards when preparing standard curves within antibody-sandwich formats. It also provides an excellent serum dilution medium for antigen-down ELISAs in the assessment of a humoral immune response to a particular disease state or immunization regimen.

Sample diluents are used to dilute samples into the functional range of the assay and to create the standard curve. Due to the finite binding capacity of the plate well-coated proteins (e.g., antibodies, antigens), highly concentrated samples must be diluted in order to obtain absorbance readings within the sensitivity detection limits of the instrument. Properly formulated sample diluents will also reduce background noise associated with non-specific bridging of signal-generating conjugates to the plate well surface.

General Serum Diluent provides a BSA protein-buffered, neutral pH environment that is highly compatible with antibody-antigen interactions. Inclusion of a protein component helps minimize the degree of non-specific IgG adsorption onto coated and blocked ELISA plate wells during antigen-down screening of serum or plasma samples. Antimicrobial agents allow for room temperature bench-top use and extensive storage stability at 2-8°C.