Editing Western blot (section)

=== Blocking ===
Since the membrane has been chosen for its ability to bind protein and as both antibodies and the target are proteins, steps must be taken to prevent the interactions between the membrane and the antibody used for detection of the target protein. Blocking of non-specific binding is achieved by placing the membrane in a dilute solution of protein – typically 3–5% [[bovine serum albumin]] (BSA) or [[Powdered milk|non-fat dry milk]] (both are inexpensive) in [[tris-buffered saline]] (TBS) or I-Block, with a minute percentage (0.1%) of detergent such as [[Tween 20]] or [[Triton X-100]]. Although non-fat dry milk is preferred due to its availability, an appropriate blocking solution is needed as not all proteins in milk are compatible with all the detection bands.<ref name=":0"/>  The protein in the dilute solution attaches to the membrane in all places where the target proteins have not attached. Thus, when the antibody is added, it cannot bind to the membrane, and therefore the only available binding site is the specific target protein. This reduces background in the final product of the western blot, leading to clearer results, and eliminates false positives.