Invitrogen™ ProLong™ Coverslip Sealant

ProLong Coverslip Sealant seals the edges of the coverslip when samples are mounted between microscope slide and coverslip. It is designed specifically for use when slides are mounted using an antifade mountant, such as ProLong Antifade Mountant or Slowfade Antifade Mountant. The sealant is easy to apply and is brushed on after the mountant has cured, for long preservation of slides.

Features of ProLong Coverslip Sealant include:
• Dries hard and clear, preserving mounted slides for months or years
• Does not damage fluorophores or specimens, as nail polish does
• Compatible with ProLong Antifade and SlowFade Antifade mountants

ProLong Coverslip Sealant is designed to work with fluorophores, such as Alexa Fluor, GFP, RFP, and other conventional fluorophores, unlike nail polish which contains chemical solvents that can adversely affect fluorophores or sample morphology.

When using with a hard-curing mountant, such as ProLong Antifade Mountant, make sure the mountant is fully cured before applying ProLong Coverslip Sealant. Since this sealant can seal moisture under the coverslip, it can interfere with the curing process. For specimens up to 30-μm thick, it is recommended to let the ProLong mounts cure for 18-48 hours and then, using a brush, lay a thin layer of sealant on the edge. Wait for 15-30 minutes, until the sealant has hardened, before proceeding with imaging.

When using a non-curing mountant, such as Slowfade Antifade Mountants, sealing can take place immediately after mounting. Using a brush applicator, apply a thin layer to the edges of the coverslip. Wait for 15-30 minutes before proceeding with imaging. ProLong Coverslip Sealant will prevent the coverslip from moving under the microscope objective, and it will preserve the mounted slide for months.

When slides are stored long-term, it is highly recommended to store them in a freezer, with low moisture. During long storage, antibodies and other dyes can diffuse and disperse from their intended target. Storing the slides in cold storage slows down this process.