Blocking Buffer for Embryos
1× phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) buffer, pH 7.4
1.2% bovine serum albumin (BSA), fraction V
6% heat-inactivated donkey or goat serum (Sigma-Aldrich)
Heat-inactivate the serum for 30 min at 60°C. For optimal blocking, use serum from the species in which the secondary antibodies have been raised. Combine the ingredients and filter-sterilize the solution using a 0.2-µm Nalgene filter. For long-term storage, aliquot the solution and store for up to 6 mo at −20°C.
