Basis of differentiation | Nitrocellulose Membrane | Nylon membrane |
Definition | Is a sticky membrane utilized for immobilizing proteins and nucleic acids in blotting | Is a hydrophilic, heat-resistant and mechanically strong membrane used to immobilize macromolecules |
Composition | Is composed of nitrated cellulose | Is typically made of a synthetic polymer called nylon, specifically nylon-66 or nylon-6 |
Affinity | Has a strong affinity for proteins | Has a high affinity for nucleic acids |
Pore size | Pore sizes can be either 0.2 µm or 0.45 µm | Pore sizes range from 0.20 to 1.2 µm |
Durability | Are brittle and not reusable | Are mechanically stronger than nitrocellulose membranes |
Use | Prewetting is required | Prewetting is not required |
Mechanism | Electrophoretic transfer is primarily used for the transfer of proteins | Capillary transfer is primarily used in the transfer of proteins |
Reprobing | Are harder to reprobe compared to nylon membranes | Are comparatively easier to reprobe |