Questions and Answers
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to separate DNA molecules.
False
Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate molecules based on their shape and color.
False
Electrophoresis involves running a current through a fluid containing the molecules of interest.
True
In electrophoresis, the molecules will travel through the gel in the same direction and at the same speed.
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Electrophoresis is a technique used to separate molecules in a fluid using a magnetic field.
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The wells in the gel are where the electric current is applied.
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There are four basic steps to performing gel electrophoresis.
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Study Notes
Electrophoresis
- Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or protein molecules based on their size and electrical charge.
- It involves running an electric current through a gel or matrix containing the molecules of interest.
- The molecules will travel through the gel at different speeds or directions, allowing them to be separated from one another based on their size and charge.
Steps in Gel Electrophoresis
- Pouring the gel
- Preparing the samples
- Loading the gel
- Running the gel (exposing it to an electric field)
- Staining the gel
Gel Structure
- The gel has pocket-like indentations called wells, where the DNA samples are loaded.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- PCR is a technique used to make many copies of a specific DNA region in vitro.
- It relies on a thermostable DNA polymerase, Taq polymerase.
- It requires DNA primers designed specifically for the DNA region of interest.
Serum Proteins Electrophoresis
- The different fractions of serum proteins separate into 5 bands: albumin, α1, α2, β, and γ globulin fractions.
- The gamma region is mainly composed of Immunoglobulin and is given more attention in the interpretation of SPEP.
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Description
This quiz covers the laboratory technique of electrophoresis, used to separate DNA, RNA or protein molecules based on their size and electrical charge.