Poly-L-lysine coating solution (0.1 mg/mL) recipe
A positively charged coating that helps cells stick to coverslips and dishes — for neurons, loosely adherent lines and immunostaining coverslips.
🧮 Volume calculator
| Component | Amount | Final concentration (1X) |
|---|---|---|
| Poly-L-lysine (MW 70,000–150,000) | 5 mg | 0.1 mg/mL |
| Water (distilled) | to final volume |
Steps
- Dissolve in sterile water and filter.
- Cover the surface for 5 min–1 h at room temperature, then aspirate.
- Rinse 2–3 times with sterile water and dry before use (residual PLL is toxic).
Good to know
- For long neuronal cultures, protease-resistant poly-D-lysine is better.
- Dissolving in 0.1 M borate (pH 8.5) is reported to improve coating.
FAQ
How long do coated coverslips keep?
Dried and kept sterile, they last a few weeks.
This is a widely used standard composition. Amounts depend on the hydrate form and purity of your reagents — check the formula weight (FW) on the bottle and follow your institution's safety rules and the manufacturers' instructions.