You invested in SCF active proteins for your stem cell research and started your experiment with care, but something unexpected happened: your reagent lost its bioactivity.

The breakdown of active proteins can be annoying when you have prepared every step with attention, yet your results don’t come as expected. It affects both your time and budget. But why does protein lose its activity?

Actually, the reagents, like enzymes and active proteins, are very fragile. Even one small mistake with handling or storage can compromise months of research planning and preparation.

This is why we bring you this guide to the right storage that keeps your SCF active proteins performing at their best.

Why Storage Matters For SCF Active Proteins?

SCF proteins are fragile and susceptible to degradation, just like other proteins. Storing the proteins right means preserving their functional integrity and preventing their denaturation. 

SCF is a factor that promotes growth and survival by binding to and activating the c-Kit receptor present on the surface of different cells. This interaction triggers signaling pathways that enhance cell survival, proliferation, migration, and differentiation in stem and progenitor cells. Improper storage disrupts all these essential functions and causes:

• Reduction in the protein unfolding.
• Shorten the protein’s life.
• Increase the risk of contamination.
• Formation of inactive or harmful protein aggregates.
• Decrease in biological activity and signaling efficiency

Tips For Short-Term Storage Of SCF Active Proteins

Temperature Control

Store the reconstituted active protein at 2 to 8 °C (standard refrigerator temperature). This setting slows protein breakdown while keeping it accessible for rapid tests. 

The Right Buffer

Use a neutral pH buffered solution, ideally sterile Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS). This maintains the conditions your active proteins need to function properly.

Note: 

Add a carrier protein, such as 0.1% HSA or BSA, to prevent active protein from sticking to storage tubes at low concentrations (below 1 mg/mL). This simple step prevents adsorption and ensures you don’t lose valuable protein to the tube.

Tips For Long-Term Storage Of SCF Active Proteins

Aliquoting: 

A common mistake researchers make is freezing the protein immediately after it arrives. Later, they thaw the whole batch to take a small portion and then refreeze the rest. Every time you thaw your SCF active protein, you risk damaging it.

However, you can prevent this by using small aliquots for freezing the protein. This way, you only thaw the amount needed for one experiment and keep the rest safe.

Temperature Choices

You have two options:

• –20°C: Suitable for weeks to months
• –80°C: Best for long-term preservation (months to years)

Know that the colder the temperature is, the better it is and the longer it keeps your protein safe.

Flash Freezing For Maximum Protection

Before placing your aliquots in the freezer, flash-freeze them in liquid nitrogen. This rapid freezing prevents the formation of ice crystals that can damage your active proteins and destroy their bioactivity. It’s an extra step, but it’s worth it for long-term storage.

Cryoprotectants For –20°C Storage

If you’re storing your active protein at –20°C, add 25–50% glycerol to your solution. Glycerol acts as a cryoprotectant and prevents the solution from freezing solid. It also helps to maintain the stability of your active proteins over time. This extra buffer protects your protein investment.

Note: For storage at –80°C, carrier proteins are generally sufficient. You don’t need glycerol.

The Bottom Line

Storing active proteins correctly is not highly complicated. Follow the steps discussed above, and your SCF active protein will remain stable and bioactive for all your research needs. Your experiments deserve reliable, high-quality active proteins. Store them right, and they’ll deliver the best results.