Electrophoresis

Electrophoresis

Means literally to “carry with electricity.”

Used to separate charged molecules such as DNA, RNA, & proteins.

Larger (heavier) particles move more slowly than smaller (lighter) particles

Electrophoresis

Performed using an agarose gel.

Agarose is a polysaccharide.

Must be dissolved in boiling water.

Gels are classified by concentrations – i.e. 0.8%, or 2%

Higher numbers indicate stronger and thicker gels

Electrophoresis

Buffer must be poured around the gels.

Buffers are mixtures of a weak acid or base and its salt.

Buffers help carry electricity through the gels.

The buffer we use is called TBE.

Electrophoresis

Cautions: Too much voltage can

melt the gels

Must watch the positive and negative electrodes to be sure that they

match the electric leads – red to red & black to black