Question: Can gel beads, slides, and other reagents be used past their expiration dates?
Answer: We cannot guarantee the performance of reagents if they are used past their expiration date.
To ensure best results, reagents should be used before the expiration date and the following considerations should be kept in mind:
- Check the number of freeze-thaw cycles for the Gel Beads and all kit components stored at -20C. Most reagents have been tested and validated through 10 freeze-thaw cycles.
- An exception to the above is the Permeabilization Enzyme (PN-2000214) from our Visium kits. This enzyme is validated through 3 freeze-thaw cycles. We also recommend against maintaining this enzyme at 37°C for extended periods of time.
- Unused Gel Beads should be stored at −80°C.
- Unused Visium slides should be stored at room temperature in the original packaging and kept sealed.
- The resuspended Template Switch Oligo (PN-3000228) should be stored at −80°C.
- All enzyme components and Master Mixes should be kept on ice during setup and promptly moved to the recommended storage temperature as soon as possible.
- Check ligase buffer, Additive A, and Reducing Agent B for precipitation after thawing and make sure they are fully resuspended before using. If remaining crystals are visible, briefly warming up the solution will facilitate resuspension. Additive A and Reducing Agent B should have a strong smell. If they do not, do not use.
Products: All