Can You Prolong the Life of Your Capillary Array?

Can You Prolong the Life of Your Capillary Array?

Frequently we hear from customers who are seeing less than optimal results in their sequencing data.  After ruling out mechanical problems, we often come to the conclusion that there are sample, reagent, or array related issues with the data.  When we finally narrow down the problem to the capillary array, the question inevitably arises “do I need to purchase a new array or can I do anything to bring this array back to life?” The simple answer to this question is “maybe”.

Some of the more common symptoms of a failing array include, but are not limited to:

1. Loss of resolution
2. Broadening or “fat” peaks
3. Delayed DNA peaks
4. Blue or yellow bands in some, but not all, of the capillaries
5. One or two capillaries showing no peaks at all

If you are seeing these symptoms and have access to dilute nitric acid, you may be able to restore your capillary to good working order for many runs to come.

Please download our complimentary array wash procedure and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.