TechTalk: Use of BSA in the manufacture of lateral flow assays

Friday, April 17 at 16:00 BST | 17:00 CEST | 11:00 EDT | 8:00 PDT

Not all bovine serum albumin (BSA) products are created equal and even small differences can significantly impact diagnostic performance.

In this 20-minute SelectScience^® TechTalk, held in partnership with Merck, we explore how BSA purity, biochemical composition, and manufacturing consistency directly influence the performance of critical components in lateral flow assays. Variability in BSA can affect background signal, non-specific binding, assay sensitivity, and overall reproducibility.

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind BSA-driven variability and why selecting the right BSA is essential for robust assay development.

This expert talk will provide a science-based perspective on what to look for in diagnostic-grade BSA and how thoughtful reagent selection can help reduce risk, improve manufacturing stability, and enhance overall assay performance.

This TechTalk is part five of a seven-part expert-led TechTalk series on essential topics in LFA development. Register to watch live or on-demand and receive exclusive invitations to upcoming sessions.

Would you like to request a free lateral flow membrane sample? Choose between the 2 mil or 4 mil backing options and discover how Merck membranes can elevate your lateral flow test development!

Key learning objectives:

• Understand how BSA purity impacts LFA performance: Learn how purification level, aggregates, and impurities affect background, non‑specific binding, and consistency.
• Recognize BSA’s role in conjugate stability and sensitivity: See how high‑quality BSA preserves true signal and supports lower limits of detection in respiratory assays.
• Evaluate how BSA variability affects manufacturing robustness: Understand how lot‑to‑lot differences influence scale‑up, reproducibility, and regulatory expectations.
• Identify criteria for selecting diagnostic‑grade BSA: Gain a framework for assessing biochemical attributes and supply‑chain reliability that drive assay performance.

Who should attend?

This TechTalk is designed for professionals involved in the development and manufacturing of diagnostics, including researchers, assay developers, and quality control specialists. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking to deepen their understanding of lateral flow assays and improve their assay development processes in the use of BSA as a blocker and stabilizer.

Certificate of attendance
If you attend the live TechTalk, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.

If you view the on-demand TechTalk, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.

TechTalk details

• Cost: Free to attend
• Location: Online
• Duration: 20 minutes

Registration is required to secure your place. If you register but can’t attend live, you will receive a link to the on‑demand recording once it becomes available