Invitrogen iBlot Dry Blotting System – Gel Transfer Device for Western Blotting

The Invitrogen iBlot Dry Blotting System is a laboratory instrument designed for the transfer of proteins from electrophoresis gels onto membranes for Western blotting and subsequent protein detection. It is used in molecular biology, biochemistry, life science research, and protein analysis laboratories. The system is designed to simplify the protein transfer step by using specialized transfer stacks instead of a conventional liquid-buffer transfer tank.

Protein transfer is an essential stage in Western blotting. After proteins are separated according to their molecular characteristics by gel electrophoresis, they must be transferred onto a suitable membrane so that specific proteins can be detected using antibodies or other analytical methods. The Invitrogen iBlot system supports this workflow by applying an electrical field across a prepared gel-and-membrane assembly, allowing proteins to move from the gel onto the membrane.

The iBlot dry transfer approach uses specially designed transfer stacks that incorporate the required transfer components. Compatible stacks are available with nitrocellulose or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes. These membranes bind proteins and support subsequent staining, immunodetection, and other compatible detection workflows. The dry transfer configuration reduces the need to prepare conventional liquid transfer buffers and helps simplify routine laboratory procedures.

One of the principal advantages of the iBlot 2 system is its rapid transfer process. Manufacturer information describes transfer times of approximately seven minutes or less under appropriate conditions. The system supports compatible mini and midi gel formats, with throughput depending on the selected transfer stack and gel configuration. This can help laboratories process samples efficiently when performing repeated Western blot experiments.

The instrument is relevant to research involving protein expression, antibody-based detection, molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemical investigations. Researchers may use it when examining protein samples obtained from cell lysates, tissue extracts, purified preparations, or other compatible biological materials. The iBlot itself performs the transfer step; electrophoresis, membrane blocking, antibody incubation, washing, and signal detection require the appropriate additional equipment, reagents, and procedures.

The supplied photographs show an Invitrogen-style device with an opening lid and an internal transfer area. The overall appearance is consistent with an iBlot family instrument, but the exact model generation cannot be conclusively determined from the photographs. Therefore, buyers should verify whether the unit is an original iBlot, an iBlot 2, or another compatible configuration before purchasing transfer stacks or replacement components.

The instrument may be suitable for university laboratories, biotechnology research facilities, pharmaceutical research departments, diagnostic research laboratories, and other scientific organizations performing protein analysis. Its practical value depends on its operational condition, compatibility with the laboratory's existing electrophoresis and detection equipment, and availability of the correct transfer consumables.

For pre-owned equipment, a careful inspection is recommended before use. Buyers should confirm that the power supply, controls, lid mechanism, transfer surface, electrical contacts, and safety features function correctly. A functional test using a compatible transfer stack and suitable gel can help establish whether the device performs its intended operation. The seller should also disclose any known faults, service history, and included accessories.

It is important to distinguish the instrument from the disposable transfer stacks used with it. The transfer device is reusable when maintained according to the applicable manufacturer's instructions, while the compatible transfer stacks and associated consumables are generally intended for single use. Consumable compatibility depends on the exact instrument generation and stack format.

Overall, the Invitrogen iBlot Dry Blotting System is a useful component of a Western blot workflow when the correct model, transfer stacks, and operating conditions are selected. Before purchasing, laboratories should verify the model number, included accessories, electrical requirements, operational status, and compatibility with their existing gel electrophoresis and protein detection procedures.

2.2 Applications of the Product

• Western blotting: Transfers separated proteins from electrophoresis gels onto membranes.

• Protein expression studies: Supports the analysis of expressed proteins in biological samples.

• Molecular biology research: Used in workflows investigating protein characteristics and biological processes.

• Cell biology: Supports protein analysis using compatible cell extracts and lysates.

• Biochemistry laboratories: Facilitates membrane preparation for downstream protein detection.

• Pharmaceutical research: Supports research-stage protein characterization and assay development.

• Biotechnology research: Useful for routine protein transfer in research and development workflows.

• Academic laboratories: Suitable for teaching and research laboratories conducting Western blot experiments.

These are applications of the iBlot transfer system, not a claim that the device performs the entire Western blot procedure by itself.

2.3 Product Features

• Designed for dry electroblotting of proteins from gels onto membranes.

• Supports Western blotting workflows.

• Uses compatible transfer stacks with integrated transfer components.

• Compatible membrane types include nitrocellulose and PVDF, depending on the system and consumable.

• Reduces the need for conventional liquid transfer-buffer preparation.

• Supports rapid transfer under appropriate operating conditions.

• Compatible gel formats and throughput depend on the model and transfer stack.

• Suitable for routine molecular biology and protein analysis laboratories.

• Reusable instrument with compatible replacement consumables.

• Exact model generation and operational condition to be confirmed.

2.4 Technical Specifications

The following table uses published iBlot 2 specifications as a reference. They must not be assumed to apply to your pictured instrument until its model is verified.

The dimensions, weight, electrical specifications, and throughput above are published iBlot 2 reference values, not verified measurements of the pictured unit.

2.5 Product Condition

Condition: To be confirmed — Used / Refurbished / Brand New

Choose the condition according to the actual item being sold:

• Used: Previously owned equipment sold without a documented refurbishment process.

• Refurbished: Equipment that has been inspected, serviced as required, and functionally tested.

• Brand New: Use only if the product's new condition can be verified.

For this listing, do not describe the instrument as refurbished or fully functional until its condition has been established.