Jason: In my opinion, any recommendation to re-use a retrieval buffer just isn't 'good science'. The problem is that one cannot know, with any certainty, when a solution loses it effectiveness. The primary reason that the re-use approach has been advocated is because this device consumes a disproportionate volume of reagent for the number slides that it can handle (when 'full'). In addition to this 'scientific' issue, there is the issue of cost. Fundamentally, retrieval buffers are (or should be) 'cheap' -- that is, they cost only a few cents per mL, so, depending on the quantity and arrangement of slides within a given device, cost-per-slide values range from twenty-five cents to nearly two dollars. Using a PT Module, however, the lowest possible cost-per-slide that one can obtain would be in the best-case scenario of placing 24 slides in each 'tank', but the reality is, one rarely uses completely filled slide racks, so the cost-per-slide value is usually even higher. If you're interested, I can e-mail you (or anyone else) a cost-analysis spreadsheet that will likely surprise you. Finally, for what its worth, most of labs that I've ever spoken with who've (initially) implemented this device have gone back to using a pressure cooker because of cost concerns and the hassle of handling the hot, heavy tanks. Joe Myers, M.S, CT(ASCP) ------------------------------
Message: 6 Date: Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:09:10 -0600 From: "Jason McGough" <jmcgo...@clinlab.com> Subject: [Histonet] Reusing Citrate Antigen Retrieval Buffer We are looking into using our .01M Citrate Antigen Retrieval Buffer in our Dako PT Link for Antigen Retrieval on our IHC stains. The question that we are wondering about is anybody reusing this solution for multiple times? If so, how many times? What is your dilution? Like the High pH Antigen Retrieval solution from Dako, it is recommended to use up to 3 time before replacement. We are having several problems with the High pH antigen retrieval solution from Dako and want to try Citrate, since that is what we have been using for many years with great results. We previously used the Pascal Pressure Cooker from Dako for Antigen Retrieval but now have the PT Link. Thank you in advance for your replies. Jason McGough HT(ASCP) Account Representative - Anatomic Pathology Clinical Laboratory of the Black Hills **************Eat Great & Lose Weight FASTER! Start the South Beach Diet Online - FREE Profile! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221822996x1201398599/aol?redir=http:%2F%2Fad.doubleclick.net%2Fclk%3B213623126%3B35100424% 3Bk) _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet