Electrophoresis is the motion of charged particles or molecules in a solution under the influence of an electric field (e-field). This principle forms the basis of a powerful analytical technique, also called electrophoresis, used to separate macromolecules like DNA and proteins.
In gel electrophoresis, a sample is loaded into a gel matrix, and an electric field is applied. The gel acts as a molecular sieve; its porous structure allows smaller molecules to migrate more quickly than larger ones, which are impeded. This differential migration rate results in the separation of molecules based on their size.
For instance, DNA molecules have a consistent negative charge due to their phosphate backbone. When placed in an electric field, they naturally migrate toward the positive electrode (anode). In the gel matrix, smaller DNA fragments travel farther toward the anode, while larger fragments move shorter distances. This property is used to analyze DNA. A similar technique, SDS-PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis), is used for proteins. The detergent SDS is applied to denature the proteins and impart a uniform negative charge, ensuring that separation occurs strictly based on molecular weight. This technique is widely used in the fields of molecular biology and biochemistry.
- Gel Electrophoresis
- Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE)
- Agarose gel electrophoresis (submarine electrophoresis)
- SDS Electrophoresis
- Capillary electrophoresis (CE)
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- For many standard gel electrophoresis applications, a DC power supply providing up to several hundred volts is sufficient. For more demanding techniques, we recommend a high-voltage power supply such as the R4G650-0.1 (650 V, 100 mA).
- Example: R4G650-0.1
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- Capillary electrophoresis (CE), however, requires significantly higher voltages, typically in the range of 10-30 kV, for effective separation.
- Example: CZE, CZ9, K12-R, KAS-R series
Matsusada Precision offers a lineup of high-voltage power supplies for applying voltage to electrodes for electrophoresis, as well as power supplies that can switch between positive and negative electrode output.
- Related words:
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- electrophoresis
- electrophoresis research
- charged particle molecule
- protein
- DNA
- cellular electrophoresis
Recommended products
We have a variety of products in our lineup, including high-voltage power supplies for applying voltage to electrodes for electrophoresis, and power supplies that can switch between positive and negative output.
