USE PRINCIPLES
The Saxitoxin plate kit is a competitive enzyme-labeled immunoassay. The Saxitoxin HRP conjugate, sample extract and calibrators are pipetted into the test wells followed by Saxitoxin antibody to initiate the reaction. During the 30-minute incubation period, Saxitoxin from the sample and Saxitoxin HRP conjugate compete for binding to Saxitoxin antibody. Following this 30-minute incubation, the contents of the well are removed, and the wells are washed to remove any unbound Saxitoxin, Saxitoxin HRP conjugate and free Saxitoxin antibody. After wash, a clear substrate is then added to the wells and any bound enzyme conjugate causes the conversion to a blue color. Following a 30-minute incubation, the reaction is stopped and the amount of color in each well is read. The color of the unknown samples is compared to the color of the calibrators and the Saxitoxin concentration of the samples is derived.

PRECAUTIONS
•   Store all kit components at 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F) when not in use.
•   Each reagent is optimized for use in the Saxitoxin Plate Kit. Do not substitute reagents from any other manufacturer into the test kit. Do not combine reagents from other Saxitoxin plate kits with different lot numbers.
•   Dilution or adulteration of reagents or samples not called for in the procedure may result in inaccurate results.
•   Do not use reagents after expiration date.
•   Reagents should be brought to room temperature, 20 – 28ºC (62 – 82ºF) prior to use. Avoid prolonged (> 24 hours) storage at room temperature.
•   Saxitoxin is a toxin and should be treated with care.
•   The Stop Solution is 1N hydrochloric acid. Avoid contact with skin and mucous membranes. Immediately clean up any spills and wash area with copious amounts of water. If contact should occur, immediately flush with copious amounts of water.
•   Transfer of samples and reagents by pipette requires constant monitoring of technique. Pipetting errors are the major source of error in immunoassay methodology.