Preparation and Storage of User-Supplied Reagents

Use the following guidance when preparing or storing reagents:

• Maintain a first in, first out (FIFO) system for reagents. Rotate the stock of the remaining reagents to avoid using expired reagents.
• Infinium HTS Methylation Assay kits contain reagents in exact quantities needed for the assay. Measure reagents carefully to avoid shortages.
• A bisulfite conversion kit is needed to complete this workflow and is not included in the Infinium HTS Methylation kit. Make sure you have the necessary materials before you begin. For more information on the consumables needed for manual processing, refer to Convert DNA. For more information on the consumables needed for automated processing, refer to Convert DNA.
• Use fresh reagents for each batch of plates, and empty reservoirs between batches.
• To minimize errors when preparing user-supplied reagents, prepare large batches of 0.1 N NaOH and 95% Formamide/1 mM EDTA using the following guidance.
• Prepare fresh 0.1 N NaOH in large batches. Divide batches into 15 ml or 50 ml sealed tubes.
• Store the sealed tubes for 6 months at 2°C to 8°C and use the stored 0.1 N NaOH as needed. Use the 0.1 N NaOH the same day you open the tube, and discard any unused amounts.
• Prepare the 95% formamide/1 mM EDTA mixture in large batches. Divide batches into 15 ml or 50 ml sealed tubes.
• Store the sealed tubes for up to 6 months at -25°C to -15°C and use the stored mixture as needed. Use the mixture the same day that you open the tube, and discard any unused amounts.
• Use fresh RA1 for each step in the assay where the reagent is required. RA1 that has been stored properly and has not been dispensed for use in either the XStain or resuspension step is considered fresh RA1. RA1 is no longer considered fresh when exposed to room temperature air for extended periods of time.
• To make best use of RA1, only pour the amount needed for the step. If you plan to perform additional assay steps that require RA1 in the same day, leave the remaining thawed reagent in the original, closed bottle at room temperature until it is needed. Follow the standard RA1 storage procedures described in this guide for next-day processing and prolonged storage conditions.