iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System

The next generation of performance and convenience

The iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System combines an innovative, all-new robust design that delivers exceptional performance and convenience with proven iBlot technology. The iBlot 3 System is a true self-contained, plug-and-play system, with an integrated power supply and pre-packaged ready-to-use transfer stacks. Setup, teardown, and cleanup only takes minutes compared with the much more cumbersome and hands-on steps required for wet-tank transfer.

Request a demo  Register your device

Learn how the iBlot 3 Transfer System delivers equivalent or better transfer efficiency than wet transfer, and in a fraction of the time.

Download app note

The next generation of protein transfer

Maximum productivity

Now you can perform reliable, high-quality transfers faster than ever—in as few as 3 minutes. You can also save time that would be spent waiting for transfer device availability. Two independently controlled transfer stations allow you to share the device with your coworker while simultaneously running four mini gels or two midi gels with two different programs. In addition, you can reduce method setup time by selecting preprogrammed methods from the user-friendly touchscreen interface. Programs can also be customized to fit your needs.

Better transfer efficiency

With the iBlot 3, you can achieve as good or better protein transfer efficiency compared with wet tank transfer and other rapid transfer methods.

The iBlot 3 system demonstrates better transfer efficiency. (A) Hsp70: Invitrogen NuPAGE 4–12% Bis-Tris mini gels were loaded with 20, 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, and 0.312 μg of A431 lysate per lane, respectively. After gel electrophoresis, the proteins were transferred using the method and conditions shown above. Immunoprocessing was completed using the Invitrogen Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Blots were incubated with Thermo Scientific Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer for 30 minutes. Hsp70 primary antibody (1:1,000 in clear milk) was added to blots and incubated for 12 hours at room temperature. Primary antibody was removed and GAM-HRP secondary antibody (1:120,000 in TBST) was added to blots and incubated for 2 hours. Thermo Scientific SuperSignal West Dura chemiluminescent substrate was used for detection. Invitrogen iBright FL1500 Imaging System was used for image capture. Local background corrected volume per lysate was plotted for each lane. (B) 4EBP1: Invitrogen Novex 16% Tricine mini gels were loaded with 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 0.156, and 0.078 μg of A431 lysate per lane, respectively. After gel electrophoresis, the proteins were transferred using the method and conditions shown above. Immunoprocessing was completed using the Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Blots were incubated with Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer for 30 minutes. 4EBP1 primary antibody (1:1,000 in clear milk) was added to blots and incubated for 12 hours at room temperature. Primary antibody was removed and GAR-HRP secondary antibody (1:175,000 in TBST) was added to blots and incubated for 2 hours. SuperSignal West Dura chemiluminescent substrate was used for detection. The iBright FL1500 instrument was used for image capture. Local background corrected volume per lysate was plotted for each lane. Note: GAM = goat anti-mouse, HRP = horse radish peroxidase, TBST = tris-buffered saline with Tween™ (solution), GAR = goat anti-rabbit.

Consistent, reproducible results

The pre-assembled, single-use consumables and ultra-fast transfer methods eliminate variability—ensuring consistent and repeatable results compared with classical methods. In addition, the all-new robust design with built-in cooling reduces heat buildup, facilitating run-to-run consistency.

The iBlot 3 device delivers consistent results. A serial dilution of Thermo Scientific HEK293 lysate (lysed in Thermo Scientific RIPA buffer) was loaded onto four Invitrogen Bolt 4–12% Bis Tris plus gels. Protein loads from lane 1–11, left to right (in μg) were: 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 0.156, 0.078, 0.039, 0.020, and 0.010. Invitrogen iBright Prestained Protein Ladder (2 μL) was loaded into lane 12. MES SDS running buffer was used for gel electrophoresis. Proteins were transferred using the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer Device and iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, Midi, NC using the broad range (30–250 kDa) preprogrammed transfer method (25V, 6 min, low cooling). Blots were then blocked with Thermo Scientific Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer (Cat. No. 37587) and were then probed using primary antibodies raised against EGFR, calreticulin, and p23 (Cat. Nos. PA1-1110, PA1-903, and MA3-414, respectively) in clear milk for 12 hours. Secondary antibodies (AFP-GAR-800 (Cat. No. A32735), AFP-GAM-488 (Cat. No. A32723), AF-GAChk-546 (Cat. No. A11040) were prepared in TBST and added to the blots for 2 hours. Immunoprocessing was completed on the Invitrogen Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Imaging was completed on the Invitrogen iBright FL1500 Imaging System.

Rachel Biggs, Ph.D. Candidate, Biomedical Science

Rachel Biggs, Ph.D. Candidate, Biomedical Science

Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine
Medical University of South Carolina

"Since we have switched from old-school overnight wet transfers to the iBlot 3, we have had much better transfers, less incidences of bubbles, and it has saved us so much time. By transitioning to this method, we have shifted to incubating the nitrocellulose membrane in primary antibody overnight, which has given us much brighter bands when imaging. I have also used the BioRad Turbo Transfer System, and I have to say I prefer the iBlot 3. It is a full minute faster and the clean-up is much easier. Also, the instructions provided with the machine are very easy to follow. Even my undergraduate volunteers could use the machine without assistance.”

Upgrade program

Are you still using an original iBlot or iBlot 2 device? Learn more about our incentive program to upgrade to an iBlot 3 device.

Transfer stack electrode recycling

The copper electrodes in the iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks can be recycled.

Learn how to recycle copper electrodes

Specifications
Capacity1–4 mini, or 1–2 midi
Gel Size 8 x 8 cm, 8 x 13 cm, 13.5 x 10.8 cm
ChemistriesTris-glycine, bis-tris, tris-acetate, tricine
Compatibility1.0–1.5 mm thick gels
Transfer time3–8 min
Transfer bufferNo buffer required
ProgramsPre-programmed with three methods for transfer of proteins from various gel types or create custom programs
Power supplyInternal (no additional power supply needed)
Dimensions44 x 30 x 18.25 cm
Weight8.3 kg
Electrical Parameters100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 6.3 A

The iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System is based on the dry blotting concept, utilizing a unique gel matrix technology. The iBlot 3 Transfer Stack consists of a Bottom Stack and a Top Stack sandwiching a pre-run gel and a nitrocellulose (0.2 µm) or PVDF (0.2 µm) membrane. The iBlot 3 Transfer Stack is assembled with the blotting membrane on the anode side, and a pre-run gel on the cathode side.

Schematic of iBlot 3 Transfer Stack showing the flow of current

iBlot 3 Transfer Stack

Complete transfer of proteins from the gel to the blotting membrane is accomplished in as few as three minutes. The rapid transfer without the need for external power supply or premade buffers is possible due to the following features of the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System:

  • The gel matrix of the Bottom and Top Stack incorporate the appropriate anode and cathode buffers to act as ion reservoirs. This format eliminates the need for premade buffers or soaked filter paper, and minimizes handling that can lead to inconsistent performance.
  • The copper anode does not generate oxygen gas as a result of water electrolysis, resulting in increased transfer consistency. Conventional inert electrodes present in other blotting systems result in oxygen generation, which can result in blotting distortion.
  • The design of the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System reduces the distance between the electrodes and the integrated power supply. This unique design combined with the gel matrix technology of iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks allows the system to generate high field strength and increase the transfer speed.

How to use the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System

Learn how to transfer your proteins from polyacrymide gels to nitrocellulose or PDVF membranes in as few as 3 minutes with this detailed step-by-step video.

iBlot 3 Starter Kits

Get a jumpstart and save with our starter kits!

Our starter kits include everything you need to start transferring your proteins with the Invitrogen iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System.

Option 1: nitrocellulose membranes

Includes:

  • iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System
  • iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, nitrocellulose, midi size (2 boxes, 20 stacks)

Option 2: PVDF membranes

Includes:

  • iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System
  • iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, PVDF, midi size (2 boxes, 20 stacks)

iBlot 3 warranty options

Catalog NumberNameSize

ZGEXSCIBLOT3

1-Year Rapid Exchange Extended Warranty

1 year

ZG03SCIBLOT31-Year ABRC Support Extended Warranty1 year
ZG04SCIBLOT31-Year ABRC Support Plus Extended Warranty1 year
Note: Contact your local sales representative to get a price quote for any of the extended warranty options.

Still using your original iBlot or iBlot 2 device? Upgrade to an iBlot 3 Dry Blotting System Today.

iBlot 3 Warranty and Service Contract Offerings

Each iBlot 3 device comes with a one-year warranty. If your iBlot 3 device requires repair while under warranty, it can be sent to our Global Repair Center and all costs for shipping, labor, and parts for repairs are covered.

To keep your system up and running, we recommend a service contract. These service contracts can be purchased at the time of the instrument sale and honored during the initial warranty period. The following is available for iBlot 3:

Rapid Exchange (REX)*

With the Rapid Exchange Service Plan, if your iBlot 3 device requires repair, it can be exchanged for a replacement factory-refurbished device at no additional cost, usually arriving in two business days. Thermo Fisher Scientific is offering Rapid Exchange purchase incentives—SKUs A56727, A56728, and A56729 include iBlot 3 with two years of Rapid Exchange (REX)* for the price of one year.

ABRC Support**

With ABRC Support, your iBlot 3 device can be sent to the Global Repair Center. Manufacturer trained technicians will repair the instrument and it will be returned to you in 21 business days.

ABRC Support Plus**

With ABRC Support Plus, your iBlot 3 device can be sent to the Global Repair Center. Manufacturer trained technicians will repair the instrument and it will be returned to you in 21 business days. While your device is at the Repair Center, a loaner instrument will be sent to prevent any downtime.

For a system that is already in your lab, request a service quote tailored to your lab’s budget and needs. Use the Service Selection Tool to receive a customized quote.

*A56727, A56728, and A56729 and REX are not available in all regions.

**ABRC Support and ABRC Support Plus not available in all regions. Please contact your local sales representative or visit Contact Us.

The next generation of protein transfer

Maximum productivity

Now you can perform reliable, high-quality transfers faster than ever—in as few as 3 minutes. You can also save time that would be spent waiting for transfer device availability. Two independently controlled transfer stations allow you to share the device with your coworker while simultaneously running four mini gels or two midi gels with two different programs. In addition, you can reduce method setup time by selecting preprogrammed methods from the user-friendly touchscreen interface. Programs can also be customized to fit your needs.

Better transfer efficiency

With the iBlot 3, you can achieve as good or better protein transfer efficiency compared with wet tank transfer and other rapid transfer methods.

The iBlot 3 system demonstrates better transfer efficiency. (A) Hsp70: Invitrogen NuPAGE 4–12% Bis-Tris mini gels were loaded with 20, 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, and 0.312 μg of A431 lysate per lane, respectively. After gel electrophoresis, the proteins were transferred using the method and conditions shown above. Immunoprocessing was completed using the Invitrogen Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Blots were incubated with Thermo Scientific Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer for 30 minutes. Hsp70 primary antibody (1:1,000 in clear milk) was added to blots and incubated for 12 hours at room temperature. Primary antibody was removed and GAM-HRP secondary antibody (1:120,000 in TBST) was added to blots and incubated for 2 hours. Thermo Scientific SuperSignal West Dura chemiluminescent substrate was used for detection. Invitrogen iBright FL1500 Imaging System was used for image capture. Local background corrected volume per lysate was plotted for each lane. (B) 4EBP1: Invitrogen Novex 16% Tricine mini gels were loaded with 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 0.156, and 0.078 μg of A431 lysate per lane, respectively. After gel electrophoresis, the proteins were transferred using the method and conditions shown above. Immunoprocessing was completed using the Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Blots were incubated with Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer for 30 minutes. 4EBP1 primary antibody (1:1,000 in clear milk) was added to blots and incubated for 12 hours at room temperature. Primary antibody was removed and GAR-HRP secondary antibody (1:175,000 in TBST) was added to blots and incubated for 2 hours. SuperSignal West Dura chemiluminescent substrate was used for detection. The iBright FL1500 instrument was used for image capture. Local background corrected volume per lysate was plotted for each lane. Note: GAM = goat anti-mouse, HRP = horse radish peroxidase, TBST = tris-buffered saline with Tween™ (solution), GAR = goat anti-rabbit.

Consistent, reproducible results

The pre-assembled, single-use consumables and ultra-fast transfer methods eliminate variability—ensuring consistent and repeatable results compared with classical methods. In addition, the all-new robust design with built-in cooling reduces heat buildup, facilitating run-to-run consistency.

The iBlot 3 device delivers consistent results. A serial dilution of Thermo Scientific HEK293 lysate (lysed in Thermo Scientific RIPA buffer) was loaded onto four Invitrogen Bolt 4–12% Bis Tris plus gels. Protein loads from lane 1–11, left to right (in μg) were: 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 0.156, 0.078, 0.039, 0.020, and 0.010. Invitrogen iBright Prestained Protein Ladder (2 μL) was loaded into lane 12. MES SDS running buffer was used for gel electrophoresis. Proteins were transferred using the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer Device and iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, Midi, NC using the broad range (30–250 kDa) preprogrammed transfer method (25V, 6 min, low cooling). Blots were then blocked with Thermo Scientific Pierce Clear Milk Blocking Buffer (Cat. No. 37587) and were then probed using primary antibodies raised against EGFR, calreticulin, and p23 (Cat. Nos. PA1-1110, PA1-903, and MA3-414, respectively) in clear milk for 12 hours. Secondary antibodies (AFP-GAR-800 (Cat. No. A32735), AFP-GAM-488 (Cat. No. A32723), AF-GAChk-546 (Cat. No. A11040) were prepared in TBST and added to the blots for 2 hours. Immunoprocessing was completed on the Invitrogen Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor. Imaging was completed on the Invitrogen iBright FL1500 Imaging System.

Rachel Biggs, Ph.D. Candidate, Biomedical Science

Rachel Biggs, Ph.D. Candidate, Biomedical Science

Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine
Medical University of South Carolina

"Since we have switched from old-school overnight wet transfers to the iBlot 3, we have had much better transfers, less incidences of bubbles, and it has saved us so much time. By transitioning to this method, we have shifted to incubating the nitrocellulose membrane in primary antibody overnight, which has given us much brighter bands when imaging. I have also used the BioRad Turbo Transfer System, and I have to say I prefer the iBlot 3. It is a full minute faster and the clean-up is much easier. Also, the instructions provided with the machine are very easy to follow. Even my undergraduate volunteers could use the machine without assistance.”

Upgrade program

Are you still using an original iBlot or iBlot 2 device? Learn more about our incentive program to upgrade to an iBlot 3 device.

Transfer stack electrode recycling

The copper electrodes in the iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks can be recycled.

Learn how to recycle copper electrodes

Specifications
Capacity1–4 mini, or 1–2 midi
Gel Size 8 x 8 cm, 8 x 13 cm, 13.5 x 10.8 cm
ChemistriesTris-glycine, bis-tris, tris-acetate, tricine
Compatibility1.0–1.5 mm thick gels
Transfer time3–8 min
Transfer bufferNo buffer required
ProgramsPre-programmed with three methods for transfer of proteins from various gel types or create custom programs
Power supplyInternal (no additional power supply needed)
Dimensions44 x 30 x 18.25 cm
Weight8.3 kg
Electrical Parameters100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 6.3 A

The iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System is based on the dry blotting concept, utilizing a unique gel matrix technology. The iBlot 3 Transfer Stack consists of a Bottom Stack and a Top Stack sandwiching a pre-run gel and a nitrocellulose (0.2 µm) or PVDF (0.2 µm) membrane. The iBlot 3 Transfer Stack is assembled with the blotting membrane on the anode side, and a pre-run gel on the cathode side.

Schematic of iBlot 3 Transfer Stack showing the flow of current

iBlot 3 Transfer Stack

Complete transfer of proteins from the gel to the blotting membrane is accomplished in as few as three minutes. The rapid transfer without the need for external power supply or premade buffers is possible due to the following features of the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System:

  • The gel matrix of the Bottom and Top Stack incorporate the appropriate anode and cathode buffers to act as ion reservoirs. This format eliminates the need for premade buffers or soaked filter paper, and minimizes handling that can lead to inconsistent performance.
  • The copper anode does not generate oxygen gas as a result of water electrolysis, resulting in increased transfer consistency. Conventional inert electrodes present in other blotting systems result in oxygen generation, which can result in blotting distortion.
  • The design of the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System reduces the distance between the electrodes and the integrated power supply. This unique design combined with the gel matrix technology of iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks allows the system to generate high field strength and increase the transfer speed.

How to use the iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System

Learn how to transfer your proteins from polyacrymide gels to nitrocellulose or PDVF membranes in as few as 3 minutes with this detailed step-by-step video.

iBlot 3 Starter Kits

Get a jumpstart and save with our starter kits!

Our starter kits include everything you need to start transferring your proteins with the Invitrogen iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System.

Option 1: nitrocellulose membranes

Includes:

  • iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System
  • iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, nitrocellulose, midi size (2 boxes, 20 stacks)

Option 2: PVDF membranes

Includes:

  • iBlot 3 Western Blot Transfer System
  • iBlot 3 Transfer Stacks, PVDF, midi size (2 boxes, 20 stacks)

iBlot 3 warranty options

Catalog NumberNameSize

ZGEXSCIBLOT3

1-Year Rapid Exchange Extended Warranty

1 year

ZG03SCIBLOT31-Year ABRC Support Extended Warranty1 year
ZG04SCIBLOT31-Year ABRC Support Plus Extended Warranty1 year
Note: Contact your local sales representative to get a price quote for any of the extended warranty options.

Still using your original iBlot or iBlot 2 device? Upgrade to an iBlot 3 Dry Blotting System Today.

iBlot 3 Warranty and Service Contract Offerings

Each iBlot 3 device comes with a one-year warranty. If your iBlot 3 device requires repair while under warranty, it can be sent to our Global Repair Center and all costs for shipping, labor, and parts for repairs are covered.

To keep your system up and running, we recommend a service contract. These service contracts can be purchased at the time of the instrument sale and honored during the initial warranty period. The following is available for iBlot 3:

Rapid Exchange (REX)*

With the Rapid Exchange Service Plan, if your iBlot 3 device requires repair, it can be exchanged for a replacement factory-refurbished device at no additional cost, usually arriving in two business days. Thermo Fisher Scientific is offering Rapid Exchange purchase incentives—SKUs A56727, A56728, and A56729 include iBlot 3 with two years of Rapid Exchange (REX)* for the price of one year.

ABRC Support**

With ABRC Support, your iBlot 3 device can be sent to the Global Repair Center. Manufacturer trained technicians will repair the instrument and it will be returned to you in 21 business days.

ABRC Support Plus**

With ABRC Support Plus, your iBlot 3 device can be sent to the Global Repair Center. Manufacturer trained technicians will repair the instrument and it will be returned to you in 21 business days. While your device is at the Repair Center, a loaner instrument will be sent to prevent any downtime.

For a system that is already in your lab, request a service quote tailored to your lab’s budget and needs. Use the Service Selection Tool to receive a customized quote.

*A56727, A56728, and A56729 and REX are not available in all regions.

**ABRC Support and ABRC Support Plus not available in all regions. Please contact your local sales representative or visit Contact Us.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.