---
title: "How to Prevent Sticky ConA Beads in CUT&RUN"
slug: "how-do-i-prevent-cona-beads-from-becoming-sticky"
description: "Learn how to prevent ConA beads from becoming sticky during CUT&RUN with tips for handling, washing, and maintaining bead performance."
updated: 2026-02-27T15:01:39Z
published: 2026-02-27T15:01:39Z
canonical: "support.epicypher.com/how-do-i-prevent-cona-beads-from-becoming-sticky"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://support.epicypher.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How do I prevent ConA beads from becoming sticky?

> This article also applies to meCUT&RUN and Multiomic CUT&RUN.

There are several steps you can take to help prevent ConA bead clumping and precipitation.

- Do NOT let ConA beads dry out. Avoid disturbing beads with pipette while on magnet.
- Do NOT rotate or invert tubes. Rotation causes ConA beads to stick to tube sides and dry out, reducing yields. Use a nutator for incubations and elevate tube caps.
  - **Note:** If accidental inversion occurs, quick spin tubes immediately to collect material.
- Be careful when pipetting very sticky beads, as they can stick to the inside of pipette tips and cause sample loss. In cases with excessive bead clumping, gently vortexing is preferred.
- Start with high-quality cells, confirmed using our [quality control checks](/v1/docs/confirm-high-quality-sample-prep-cut-and-run). Increased cell lysis can cause ConA beads to become more clumpy, reducing yields.